Anytime the USGA goes back to Pinehurst from now until the end of time, Payne Stewart will be one of the focal points. A winner on this golf course back in 1999, Stewart tragically passed away in a plane crash later that year, and a statue sits behind the 18th green honoring the man that made that incredibly clutch putt on the final green in ’99.
The USGA decided to go with that same pin placement on Sunday at this year’s U.S. Open, giving a tribute to Stewart in their own way on their return to Pinehurst.
Justin Rose got to the 18th hole on Sunday without a chance at defending his title, but he had played some solid golf throughout the week and had a good look at birdie on that final green. Rose rolled in the birdie putt, and then extended his arm with his foot raised, just as Payne did in ’99 when his par putt dropped for the one-shot victory.
We’ve already seen Payne’s daughter, Chelsea, recreate the famous pose earlier this week, and with Rickie Fowler’s tribute on Thursday and this from Rose, it was a pretty special week around Pinehurst.
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Shane Bacon is the editor of Devil Ball Golf and Busted Racquet on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at shanebaconblogs@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter at @ShaneBacon!
Devil Ball Golf – Golf – Yahoo Sports
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