10 Outsiders to Watch at The US Open

Essential to its nature, the US Open brings together a diverse field who have taken on a variety of pathways to either secure exemptions or qualify for this year's showpiece at Los Angeles Country Club.

While most eyes will be fixed on the biggest names and championship favourites, there is undeniably an opportunity for a relative outsider to usurp those fancied individuals and spring a surprise to claim America's national title.

Jordan Smith

English golfer who really should have achieved more than he has. But he returned to the winners’ circle in 2022 and rolled off a host of top 10s. Was back to his best at the recent Porsche European Open.

Wilco Nienaber

The South African came through qualifying to make it to this stage. He is one of the biggest hitters in the game and is a fabulous prospect who just needs to learn to harness that enormous power.

Rickie Fowler

Whisper it, but Fowler is on the way back. He spent a couple of years in the wilderness after deciding to change his swing, but has now gone back to what he knows and is reaping the benefits.

(Image Credit: Kevin Diss Photography)

Ryan Fox

Another huge hitter who is a proven winner on the DP World Tour. He has played in America several times this year and the fans love the way he plays the game. His driving is the key.

Thriston Lawrence

A hugely underrated young South African who many pundits believe is destined for the very top. He knows how to win and is blessed with a marvellous short game.

Denny McCarthy

Was bitterly disappointed to miss out at The Memorial but is enjoyed an incredibly consistent season, making top-10 finishes for fun. Still looking for his first victory but there are few better putters.

Adrian Meronk

I believe that Meronk is a certain future winner on the PGA Tour, but can he win a major? He is steadily climbing the world rankings. The Pole hits the ball a long way and has a great short game.

Victor Perez

Riding high in the Race to Dubai, but the Frenchman will want to follow his good finish at the US PGA with a run at the US Open. A near-certainty to make Europe’s Ryder Cup team. Has a putting stroke to die for.

Andrew Putnam

If you are looking to put some money on a top-10 finish, Putnam could be your man. Tied fifth at The Memorial on one of the most difficult courses on the PGA Tour. Putnam could be a man to watch this week.

Mito Pereira

Now plying his trade on LIV Golf, Pereira is a Chilean who won three times on the Korn Ferry Tour and is probably best known for throwing away the 2022 US PGA Championship, where he led by a stroke standing on the final tee but finished with a double-bogey.