"Our purse is $21.5 million. Winner's check is $4.3 million. We didn't raise our purse this year," USGA CEO Mike Whan said. "When I started at the USGA just four years ago, our purse was $12.5 million, so I feel comfortable that we've been a leader in moving fast and bigger. [...] We want the money to be commensurate with the achievement."

Ultimately, it was J.J. Spaun who captured the biggest crown of his life, making a dramatic birdie on the par-4 17th hole, then hoping to hold on for dear life down the treacherous 18th home hole only to drain a historic 64-foot putt for birdie when all he needed to do was two-putt for par.

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.

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.

Melody Means Spaun is the wife of golfer J.J. Spaun. They have been married since 2019 and have two daughters, Emerson and Violet.

J.J. Spaun Provides a Glimpse Into His Life With Family During US Open originally appeared on Athlon Sports. J.J. Spaun has provided a rare glimpse into his life off the course, sharing how he balances major-championship pressure with family moments during the U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club.