U.S. Open Playoff Rules: How the U.S. Open Playoff Works in 2023?

The Thrilling Contest at the 2023 U.S. Open Raises Playoff Possibilities.

As the 2023 U.S. Open reaches its final round, the competition at the top of the leaderboard is heating up. Two golfers, Wyndham Clark (-11) and Rory McIlroy (-10), are separated by just one shot, leading to speculation about a potential playoff.

Although there is still some golf left to play, with Clark having completed 11 holes and McIlroy finishing 12 holes, there’s a chance for an exciting finish as the tournament concludes on Sunday night.

Looking back at Tiger Woods’ memorable win against Rocco Mediate in the 2008 U.S. Open, fans are wondering if a similar playoff scenario could happen again.

Could History Repeat Itself?

To shed light on this, let’s discuss how the playoff format works for the 2023 U.S. Open.

Instead of the traditional 18-hole playoff, a change was made by the United States Golf Association (USGA) in 2018. The U.S. Open now features a two-hole playoff. If a playoff occurs, it will take place over two holes.

This change was driven by the desire to conclude major championships on Sunday and promptly crown the deserving champion, as highlighted by then-USGA CEO Mike Davis. The decision received positive feedback from players, fans, volunteers, officials, and broadcast partners.

Then-USGA CEO Mike Davis said, “We know how important it is to everyone in the golf world to see play conclude on the Sunday of a major championship and award the trophy to the champion. After receiving input from a variety of constituents, including players, fans, volunteers, officials, and our broadcast partners, it clearly came across as something that everyone valued, and would benefit from.”

During the two-hole playoff, each golfer will play two designated holes, and their combined scores will determine the winner. For example, if one player completes the two holes in 8 shots while the other needs 9 shots, the former will be declared the winner.

If both players are tied after the two-hole playoff, an exciting sudden-death playoff will take place, with the champion determined by a one-hole shootout.

Make sure not to miss the thrilling final round of the U.S. Open, which will be aired live on NBC.

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