Fowler bounces back in final round
SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — The USGA pledged to ease off the severe conditions at Shinnecock Hills and former Oklahoma State star Rickie Fowler responded.
Fowler tapped in for birdie on the 18th hole for a 5-under 65. If nothing else, he wins most improved. Fowler was 19 shots better than his 84 in the third round, the highest score in his U.S. Open career.
Fowler played with Phil Mickelson, who shot a 69 in his 27th U.S. Open without winning. That included a par on the 13th hole, where on Saturday he swatted a moving ball to keep it from rolling off the front of the green. Mickelson was given a two-shot penalty and made a 10 on the hole. This time he raised his arms in mock triumph.
Parziale ties for low amateur with dad as caddie
Leaning on his club, Matt Parziale crossed one leg over the other and placed the free hand on his hip. His caddie mirrored his position and used Parziale's bag as his source of support. The two looked almost identical, just one older than the other.
Being related will do that. Parziale's dad, Vic Parziale, has been with his son throughout his entire U.S. Open journey, starting Monday and ending on Father's Day. Matt finished 5 over par Sunday to tie for low amateur at 16 over for the tournament.
"We do stand alike out there," Vic said. "It's funny."
It's a classic like father, like son relationship.
Matt, 31, is a full-time firefighter in Brockton, Massachusetts. Vic retired from the same station last year after 32 years.
The two also share a love for golf.
As the first mid-amateur to make a cut at the U.S. Open in 15 years, Matt's second round was his best, carding a 73 with a birdie on No. 18 that guaranteed him a spot in the final rounds.
On the last day, Matt shot a 75 to end up at 296, the same mark fellow amateur Luis Gagne scored.
FROM WIRE REPORTS