Capelle On Golf

2008 US Open Coverage

Going into this year’s US Open Jim Furyk is flying so far under the radar his wings are catching moisture from the white caps on Torrey Pines State Beach. While he’s not setting the tour ablaze this year, he’s not playing that badly. Over the last 11 weeks he’s recorded a tie for second, a fourth, and a seventh in eight starts.

Ten months ago he won the Canadian Open, so it’s unlikely he’s forgotten how to close the deal. At last year’s US Open he tied for second with Tiger Woods, one shot back of Angel Cabrera. And let’s not forget that he won the Open in 2003, which is not exactly ancient history. He’s also the eighth ranked player in the world.

As for his game, Furyk’s seems perfect for the Open. He’s always among the leaders in driving accuracy, he hits lots of greens, and best of all he’s the ultimate grinder. So much so in fact that Woods had taken a liking to Furyk in part because he respects his single minded approach to each and every shot.

In many ways Furyk seems like the Hale Irwin of this generation. Both are solid and steady players, double digit winners, and constant contenders in the majors. At this point, both have 11 top fives in the majors.

Top Fives in the Majors
HI-JF
4–3 Masters
5–5 US Open
1–3 British Open
1–0 PGA

Irwin, who won three US Opens, and Furyk also have done their best work in this event. Furyk’s problem is that he needs to win one or two more majors if he wishes to enter the Hall of Fame and to become the Irwin of his era. He’s 38 and the clock is ticking. It would seem fitting that this fine player and gentleman win another big one soon, maybe this week.