Ludvig Aberg Leads US Open with Commanding Five-Under Finish

Ludvig Aberg of Sweden emerged as the leader at the US Open, finishing the second day at five under par after a solid round at Pinehurst, North Carolina. Aberg, a newcomer on the professional scene just a year ago, shot a one-under 69 to surpass overnight leaders Patrick Cantlay and Rory McIlroy. Cantlay showed resilience, carding a 71 to finish at four under par. McIlroy maintained his patient approach but closed with a bogey on the final hole, finishing one shot behind Aberg at three under.

Matthieu Pavon briefly led before bogeying his final two holes, finishing tied with McIlroy and Tony Finau at four under. Earlier, Bryson DeChambeau established the clubhouse lead at four under par. Belgium’s Thomas Detry briefly surpassed him with six birdies but bogeyed two of his last three holes, tying with DeChambeau. World number one Scottie Scheffler narrowly avoided missing the cut with a 74, finishing at five over par. Francesco Molinari made the cut with a hole-in-one on the ninth while Tiger Woods missed out after a seven-over 73.

Aberg and Pavon lead the way among the tournament’s newcomers. In the past 50 years, only three players younger than Aberg, aged 24, have held at least a share of the 36-hole lead at the US Open: Jordan Spieth, Rory McIlroy, and Tiger Woods, all eventual winners. Aberg, excelling in his third major after a Masters runner-up, credits Augusta for proving his big-stage capability. His consistent game strategy, navigating Pinehurst’s challenging terrain, reflects his maturity beyond his years.

DeChambeau, the 2020 US Open champion, stays in contention with a strong second round, featuring crucial putts and crowd-pleasing moments. McIlroy, seeking his first major title since 2014, showed flashes of brilliance, needing weekend consistency. Pinehurst’s tough Number Two course tests players with sandy roughs and treacherous greens, demanding strong mental fortitude. The leaderboard promises an exciting weekend with contenders like DeChambeau, McIlroy and Ludvig Aberg vying for the championship title.