In his first interview of the week, Rory McIlroy reminds the press of his recent run of good U.S. Open performances and says that he feels good about being back. He acknowledged that he can overlook his wedges and that performance around the green is critical on a Pinehurst No. 2. He shared his respect for World Golf Hall of Fame inductee Padraig Harrington, yet he still believes that title of 'most successful European in the game' is within his reach before he puts down his clubs.

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In his first interview of the week, Tiger Woods shared his excitement to play on Pinehurst No. 2 again, especially the challenge that the course poses, technically and mentally. He expressed confidence in his fitness and ability and comfort in the conditions, as hot and humid weather is something he's familiar with. He concedes that shot selection is more plentiful, but that the change from bent grass to Bermuda will present a particular challenge on a Donald Ross course. He shared that it is special having his son Charlie out on the course, both as a bonding experience and as support to keep his game in perspective.

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In his first interview of the week, Viktor Hovland praised the look and feel of Pinehurst No. 2. He has been working on his swing and conceded that it can be tough to transition during a tournament week. He explained his focus will be on aggressive moves off the tee and accurate, conservative approaches around the green.

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In his first interview of the week, DeChambeau speaks of his anticipation to play No. 2 for the first time in a U.S. Open and remembers fondly his time playing the course in college. He recognized the importance of precision and expressed confidence in his game despite his showing recently. DeChambeau feels that he's grown since his U.S. Open win both in his technical play and mental strategy.

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The World Golf Hall of Fame induction ceremony was held Monday night, highlighted by the inductions of the 13 LPGA founders. Pinehurst No. 2 has been cemented as an iconic course and its legacy will continue with the changes and challenges players will see this week.

In his first interview of the U.S. Open Championship week, Wyndham Clark gives his take on the conditions of Pinehurst No. 2, speaks about the challenges of of tour life and outlines his focus for the week. AUDIO COURTESY OF THE USGA

In his first interview of the U.S. Open Championship week, Webb Simpson talks about his history coming to Pinehurst, his love for the U.S. Open and the difference of perspective he has from his championship round in 2012. AUDIO COURTESY OF THE USGA

Former professional caddie and NBC Golf correspondent John Wood and Golf Channel's Jaime Diaz speak about Pinehurst and U.S. Opens ahead of the Open's return to Pinehurst No. 2.

Jim Moriarty has more than 4 decades experience as a sports writer and has covered golf for much of that time. Currently the editor of PineStraw Magazine, he was associate editor of Golf World and is the author of "Playing Through." He sits down with Pilot Radio's Frank Daniels to talk about what covering a U.S. Open is like, his experience closely covering Tiger Woods and more.

The Daily Wiregrass podcast brings you insights and interviews from the course of the 2024 U.S. Open in Pinehurst. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts to get the episodes first. Published in partnership with Open Daily.