Ahead of the 125th US Open at Oakmont Country Club, golfers Justin Thomas and Viktor Hovland have openly criticized the challenging 290-yard par 3 eighth hole. Both players expressed their preference for shorter par 3s, with Thomas stating that he views holes over 250 yards as poorly designed. The controversy highlights the challenge this length presents to players, as the course could extend to 300 yards for the 2025 event. Their criticism underscores a larger debate among players regarding course design and playing conditions in major tournaments.
I couldn't tell you a par 3 over 250 yards that's good, I would say, architecturally. That's not my favorite hole in the world.
Everyone's going to have to play the same hole and going to have to execute the same shots, and I would love four 3s on it right now if I could take it.
Hovland expresses frustration over long par 3s, specifically criticizing the par 3 eighth at Oakmont, stating it doesn't contribute positively to the architecture of the course.
The eighth hole at Oakmont could play as long as 300-yards at the 2025 US Open, setting the stage for further challenges for top golfers.
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