Expect to hear plenty of ‘brutal’ and ‘toughest ever’ at Oakmont this week

Traditionally, the US Open is billed as the game’s ultimate golfing test. With good reason. The course set up by the USGA demands a layer of strategy and respect that is way above that which most touring professionals would ever bring to their normal weekly routines.

The fact that Oakmont is hosting a record ninth US Open this week should give you some understanding of the status of this notoriously difficult Pittsburgh venue where legends such as Bobby Jones, Gene Sarazan, Sam Snead, Ben Hogan and Jack Nicklaus have been crowned champions.

It’s a seriously tough golf course, one which demands that all aspects of your game — your driving accuracy, your distance control with the approach shots, your short game and most especially your long range putting — are on top form.