UNIVERSITY PLACE, Washington — Chambers Bay will not suit every player at this week's U.S. Open but Rory McIlroy has embraced the challenge posed by a links-style venue that suits his power game and high ball flight.
The Northern Irish world number one saw the par-70 layout for the first time on Saturday and was stunned by its 'British Open' feel with huge sand dunes, fescue grass, undulating greens and semi-blind shots from several fairways.
"I really didn't know what to expect when I got here ... it's a pure links golf course," four-times major winner McIlroy told reporters on Tuesday before heading off for another practice round.