U.S. Open playoff format: What is the playoff format at Oakmont and how does it work?

The U.S. Open has not seen a playoff since Tiger Woods defeated Rocco Mediate in 2008. 

Back then, the big cat and a 45-year-old Mediate played 91 holes to decide the fate of the trophy. 

Their scores were tied after Tiger sank that birdie putt on the 72nd hole at Torrey Pines to force an 18-hole Monday playoff. 

Expect anything different?!

Both players shot 71 the next day but Tiger prevailed on the first hole of sudden death to land his 14th major title. 

It wasn't until 2018 that the United States Golf Association decided to change the playoff format when the tournament was held at Shinnecock Hills. 

It was done for several reasons, but primarily for broadcasting and fan experience. 

What is the U.S. Open playoff format?

In the event of a tie after 72 holes, a two-hole aggregate playoff will take place. 

If the competitors still cannot be separated then a sudden death playoff will determine the winner. 

The format is unique among the four major championships. 

The Masters goes straight to sudden death, the PGA Championship features a three-hole playoff whilst four extra holes are standard for The Open. 

The USGA is yet to announce which holes will be adopted for the playoff at Oakmont. 

What does the winner of the U.S. Open receive?

Along with a considerable amount of prize money, the winner of the U.S. Open gets:

• A U.S. Open exemption for 10 years
• Invitation to the next five Masters Tournaments
• Invitation to the next five Open Championships
• Invitation to the next five US PGA Championships
• Invitation to the next five Players Championships
• Exempt status on the PGA Tour for five years
• Allowed to keep the trophy for one year
• Jack Nicklaus gold medal