The field for the 2024 US Open, one of golf's four major championships, has been finalized with many of the sport's top names slated to compete at Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina.

The 124th playing of the US Open will take place June 13-16 at Pinehurst's iconic No. 2 course. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler heads the field as he looks to add the US Open title to his Masters victory from earlier this year.

A total of 156 players made the field for the national championship. More than half received automatic qualifying based on rankings, past performances or tournament wins. Fifteen-time major winner Tiger Woods received a special exemption after missing cuts at the Masters and PGA Championship.

It will mark Woods' first US Open since 2020 as the event does not offer lifetime exemptions like the Masters and PGA. Woods will be seeking his fourth US Open title and 16th major overall.

Others expected to challenge include reigning US Open champion Wyndham Clark, Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Xander Schauffele, Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth. International stars Hideki Matsuyama, Adam Scott and Cameron Smith also made the field.

Young Americans Collin Morikawa, Will Zalatoris and Matthew Fitzpatrick will try to hoist the trophy. Up-and-coming players Viktor Hovland and Sam Burns also made the field in pursuit of a breakthrough major victory.

The demanding Pinehurst layout will serve as a strong test for the world's best golfers. Conditions are expected to be challenging given Pinehurst's classic design and history of hosting major championships.

It sets the stage for a highly competitive championship to crown the next US Open victor on Father's Day weekend in 2024. All the sport's marquee names will be in attendance vying for one of golf's most prized titles.

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Who are the top contenders for the 2024 US Open?

Scottie Scheffler - World #1 and reigning Masters champion is one of the favorites. He has the game to handle a tough course.

Rory McIlroy - Always a threat in major championships. Was runner-up at the 2023 US Open. One of the most talented ball-strikers.

Jon Rahm - Currently #3 in the world and one of the most complete players. Has contended in majors before. Due for a second career major win.

Xander Schauffele - Has racked up numerous top 10s in majors and won the Olympic gold medal. Excellent ball-flight keeps him in contention.

Justin Thomas - Has already won the PGA Championship and will be motivated after narrowly missing out at other majors.

Jordan Spieth - On the comeback trail and seems to be regaining his best form. Three career major wins already, including the 2015 US Open.

Collin Morikawa - Reigning Open Champion and one of the best iron players in the world. Will be going for a rare double at the US and British Opens.

Will Zalatoris - Has contended in majors as a newcomer. Runner-up at both the PGA Championship and US Open in 2022. Due a breakthrough win.

Viktor Hovland - Talented Norwegian who has the all-around game to handle Pinehurst. Can compete with anyone on his day.

Wyndham Clark - Defending champion will be highly motivated to repeat at Pinehurst. Has proven he can get it done in a US Open.

Which new players are expected to make a significant impact in the 2024 U.S. Open?

Wyndham Clark:

• 2023 US Open champion at LA Country Club, claiming his first major title at age 29.
• Held off top players like Rory McIlroy down the stretch to earn the unexpected victory.
• Now has exemption to defend his title and will be highly motivated to prove his win was no fluke.

Taylor Pendrith:

• Promising young Canadian amateur who navigated the grueling qualifying process to earn a spot.
• Demonstrated he has the skills needed to compete as an amateur in the strongest field at a major.
• Goal will likely be valuable experience and potential surprise performance given his proven ability.

Victor Perez:

• Veteran European Tour star who qualified through local/section qualifying.
• Known for consistently performing well in the biggest events and toughest courses.
• Major championships play to his strengths as a skilled ball-striker, so he could be a dark horse contender.

Chris Petefish:

• Qualified through local qualifying demonstrating his all-around game is major-championship ready.
• His strong suit is an excellent short game and putting prowess, skills that often determine success at the US Open.
• Could be a sneaky pick to make the cut or even contend depending on course conditions.

References: https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/2024/06/10/us-open-golf-field-pinehurst/74043946007/

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