U.S. Open 2016: Most difficult holes

OAKMONT, PA - JUNE 17: Bubba Watson hits a a shot out of the church pew bunkers on the fourth hole during the final round of the 107th U.S. Open Championship at Oakmont Country Club on June 17, 2007 in Oakmont, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images) /

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OAKMONT, PA – SEPTEMBER 3: A general view of the par 5 12th hole at 2016 U.S. Open site Oakmont Country Club on September 3, 2015 in Oakmont, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Fred Vuich/Getty Images) /

3: No. 12: 677 yard par 5

Many professionals in major tournaments look to par 5’s to regain some lost strokes. However, that won’t be easy at Oakmont, which will only feature two par 5 holes, including the intimidating No. 12.

The fact that a 677 yard hole doesn’t rank as the toughest on the course shows just how difficult Oakmont will be this weekend. Often called the most difficult par 5 hole in the world, getting a par on No. 12 will require much more than just big hitting.

Some top players will be able to reach the green in two shots, but it’s going to require three for the vast majority of the field. That means golfers will have to navigation a monstrous fairway that slopes severely left to right, in addition to multiple bunkers and some of the highest rough on the course.

Once again, the green on No. 12 has some major slopes and will play very fast, which will test field’s skill with the irons. Many players will find their approach shots rolling into one of the five difficult bunkers that surround the hole.

Just 44 percent of players hit the green in regulation in 2007, and the same could happen this year if the wind is unforgiving.

Next: 2: No. 3: 426 yard par 4

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