This year's US Open is currently being played on the famed Pinehurst No.2 course. In a relatively unheard of twist, both the men's U.S. Open and the U.S. Women's Open will be played at Pinehurst No. 2 in 2014.
This year marks the 15-year anniversary since Payne Stewart defeated Phil Mickelson, just months before he was tragically killed in a plane crash. Stewart sank a 15-foot par-saving putt on the final hole to finish at -1, one shot ahead of Mickelson.
Payne Stewart was seen as an icon by many aspiring golfers, and was well-known for dressing in traditional attire. In 2000 the PGA Tour established the Payne Stewart Award, given each year to a player who shows respect for the traditions of the game, commitment to uphold the game's heritage of charitable support and professional and meticulous presentation of himself and the sport through his dress and conduct.
On the first day of the 2014 U.S. Open, Rickie Fowler wore "plus fours" in tribute to Stewart.
Drew Smith
Author