Caddie Says 18th Hole at U.S. Open Was 'Loudest Sound in More Than a Year' at a Golf Tournament
In a new episode of Beyond the Clubhouse, 24-year veteran PGA Tour caddie-turned NBC on-course reporter John Wood shares his memories from walking with Jon Rahm's group in the final round of the U.S. Open. Wood says the sound the fans produced on the final green when Rahm made his 18-foot birdie was the loudest he's heard at a golf tournament in over a year.
As a former caddie, Wood knows how much work Rahm's caddie Adam Hayes put in to get this win. Wood remembers two critical junctures on the back nine when Hayes gave Rahm the options he needed to hit the best shot: Rahm's second shots on the 12th and 17th holes, both from fairway bunkers. Rahm was able to escape with par on 12, one of golf's hardest par 4s, and his shot on 17 set up that magical birdie, where Rahm let out a roar as it dropped.
Wood shares many more stories inside the ropes, including the sight of his friend Hayes tearing up once Rahm's win became official. Walking away with the pin from the 18th hole is a souvenir that Wood says Hayes will treasure as much as Rahm cherishes the trophy.
Lastly, Wood talks Ryder Cup, including a story from the U.S. team's thrilling victory in 2008 at Valhalla.
Hit the play button below to listen, and look for more new episodes of Beyond the Clubhouse coming soon to the Morning Read Podcast Network.