9 specific reasons we’re loving this U.S. Amateur at Merion

Merion Golf Club, nestled in Pennsylvania, has once again captured the spotlight by hosting the prestigious U.S. Amateur tournament. This historic course, renowned for its challenging architecture and timeless charm, has provided the perfect stage for match-play battles. Author Michael Bamberger shared his observations, highlighting nine key aspects that make this tournament truly special.

1. The Enduring Charm of Merion

Merion Golf Club has always been celebrated for its compact layout, picturesque setting, and inherent difficulty. This week, the U.S. Amateur has once again proven that Merion is not only ideal for match play but will also be superb for the three upcoming U.S. Opens (in 2030, 2040, and 2050), as well as two U.S. Women's Opens (in 2034 and 2046). As the author notes, to diminish the value of a smashed driver, one needs a shorter course, not a longer one. It requires a course with peculiar angles and undulating slopes. Merion, at 6,900 yards, with two long par-3s, two longish par-5s, and a variety of mix-and-match par-4s, perfectly fits this description. It is, as Dustin Johnson might add, "one of the best. Obviously."

1. Jay Leng Jr.'s Bunker Approach

Jay Leng Jr., a promising junior at Stanford, displays one of the widest stances ever seen on a skilled golfer. More notably, however, is his approach to greenside bunkers: he immediately grabs his sand wedge the moment his ball lands in a trap. "It's not complicated, people," the author comments. "The second one shot has ended is the time to start plotting your next one." This simple yet crucial reminder emphasizes the need for quick reaction and on-course planning.

1. Logan Reilly's Composure

Leng Jr.'s Saturday semi-final opponent, Logan Reilly, a sophomore at Auburn with a distinctive red mullet, has become a fixture in the clubhouse tent beside the 13th green. He has been seen relaxing with his entourage (his father is a prominent agent), iced tea in hand, showing no rush and taking it all in. This paints a picture of a relaxed yet focused player who knows how to savor the moment.

1. Jack Whaley: Calm Under Pressure

Jack Whaley from England, a senior at Florida State and another semi-finalist, exhibited remarkable composure. He twice surrendered a three-hole lead in a single match but never showed a hint of outward anxiety. The author notes that Whaley gives new meaning to the phrase "Keep Calm and Carry On."

1. Carter Loflin and the Spirit of Old School Golf

Whaley's opponent, Carter Loflin, on the verge of finishing his degree at Georgia, sips water from a bottle featuring a Grateful Dead "Steal Your Face" logo and wears a cotton golf shirt that Arnold Palmer himself would envy. The author suggests that the era of "The Last Days of Persimmon" is welcoming this young golfer into its fold. This creates an image of a player who values tradition and classic style.

1. Quality Reporting from the USGA

The author highly praises the write-ups on the matches posted by the USGA on its website, penned by veteran newspaper writer David Shefter. These pieces are packed with information unlikely to be found elsewhere and possess a unique style that captures the colorful essence of quotes. For instance, Carter Loflin referring to former Curtis Cup player Emilia Migliaccio Doran as "the Golf Channel lady" perfectly illustrates the vibrancy and insightfulness of these reports.

1. Exemplary Courtesy from All Involved

Particular emphasis is placed on the incredible level of courtesy shown by fans, marshals, police officers, club members, USGA officials, players, and caddies. There was not a single moment of boorishness. Spectators could easily see any shot they wanted. Despite potential queues (such as a 15-minute wait to enter the pro shop), no one seemed to mind. This fosters an atmosphere of respect and positivity.

1. Kitchen Hospitality

The author shares a personal anecdote about missing last call for lunch one day. A server invited him into the kitchen, offered him a plate, pointed to the leftovers, and told him to "have at it." This act of kindness and hospitality underscores the warm atmosphere of the tournament and the club.

1. Wild and Unexpected Turns in the Golf

The play itself was marked by wild and unexpected turns. The four semi-finalists displayed moments of brilliance alongside periods of intense pressure. Whaley and Loflin were tied going into the 18th hole, and Whaley won it with a bogey. Not the ideal outcome, but it was what secured his victory. Leng defeated Reilly 2&1. Thus, Leng and Whaley will face each other in the Sunday finale, possibly in the rain, with the whistling of electric SEPTA trains in the background. This paints a picture of "timeless Merion," where even the sounds of the city become part of the atmosphere. The author also notes that he hasn't heard a single ringing cellphone yet, indicating adherence to etiquette.

Michael Bamberger welcomes comments at Michael.Bamberger@golf.com.