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The final round of the 2024 U.S. Open is upon us. Bryson DeChambeau leads at seven under. Matthieu Pavon, Patrick Cantlay and Rory McIlroy are three shots back at four under. Who wins?
Zephyr Melton, assistant editor (@zephyrmelton): It’s gotta be Bryson, right? He looks in total control of his game, and if not for a late double bogey today, he’d be turning this into a rout. His game is so much more complete than it was at Winged Foot in 2020, and it’s showing as he’s expertly dissecting Pinehurst No. 2. I think Bryson wins — and wins big. I expect a 4-plus shot margin of victory tomorrow.
Josh Sens, senior writer (@JoshSens): Agreed that all signs point to Bryson, whose game is pumping on all cylinders and who also has the crowd behind him. Makes it the perfect time for Rory McIlroy to play spoiler and slip past him for his first major in a decade.
Jessica Marksbury, senior editor (@Jess_Marksbury): I like that call, Josh! And I like Rory’s chances as a chaser. There’s less pressure, and he has a history of lighting a fire in the final round — though generally that’s been to finish in the top 10 rather than to win. But I think trailing on Sunday gives him a bit more freedom, and maybe, just maybe, he’ll do something special to claim Major No. 5.
Josh Berhow, managing editor (@Josh_Berhow): Man, I want to say Rory, because he’s played so well and I think, finally, this could be the week he snaps that drought, but three strokes is a lot. And everything is going in Bryson’s favor these days. He seems to be in a good place, the crowds are rooting for him and he’s playing (mostly) smart golf on a difficult course. DeChambeau edges Rory by one.
Jack Hirsh, assistant editor (@JR_HIRSHey): Rory McIlroy. By the way he got up and down today, it just seems like it’s finally his time. The heart wants what the heart wants.
