In addition to a brutal, record-setting 670-yard hole, the best that golf has to offer will be forced to navigate one of the most physically demanding golf layouts in the sport this week at the 112th US Open Championship.
And if the early week practice rounds are any indication, then it appears that not even 2012 Masters champ Bubba Watson, one of the game's most gifted shot-makers, is excited about the prospect of taking on the challenge that is the Olympic Club's Lakes course. Watson repeatedly told reporters that he is not really a fan of the track, and that a score in the 80's from the current green jacket holder might just be on the horizon:
"On every hole, there's something around the corner. Even the shortest hole is tough, and the longest hole is tough," said the American. "There's something on every hole that can get you. It makes it very difficult."
"Do I like it? I'll tell you in a few days," he said. "As of right now I don't like it. There's an 80 lurking. After four days of golf if there's not an 80, then I like it all right."
The last time the Olympic Club hosted an Open was in 1998 when Lee Janzen won the tournament at even par, and there's no denying that the latest modifications to the course have made it harder than it played 14 years ago. Watson will certainly have his hands full playing in the week's marquee group with Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, but from the sound of things he doesn't appear entirely confident in his ability to add another major to his resume this weekend.
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