As he stood on the ninth tee box in the pouring rain, it looked for all the world like J.J. Spaun had just played his way out of contention for the 125th US Open championship.

Some major championships are exquisite exhibitions of athletic grace and mental tenacity, symphonies conducted on fairways. You watch them, and you feel thrilled, energized, even inspired by the generational talent on display.

J.J. Spaun entered the final round of the U.S. Open on Sunday within striking distance of the lead, just a single stroke back of Sam Burns at 3-under. After the second hole, however, it became clear luck wouldn't be on Spaun's side as he attempted to track down the leader.

J.J. Spaun is the son of John and Dollie Spaun. He grew up with his family in San Dimas in Los Angeles, County, California.

The Masters champion has had five birdies and three bogeys and looks poised to card his first under-par round at Oakmont at the sixth attempt (stretching back to the 2016 tournament). He's currently tied for 35th. Each of this quartet leads the field in at least one metric through three rounds.

J.J. Spaun's accurate ball-striking is the main reason he entered Sunday of the U.S. Open with a great chance of claiming his first major title. Unfortunately for the 34-year-old, he was a bit too accurate early in the final round.