In 2017, Brooks Koepka captured the first of his two consecutive U.S. Open titles at Erin Hills, defeating future major champions Brian Harman and Hideki Matsuyama by four strokes. He posted a 72-hole total of 16-under-par 272. With the U.S. Women's Open Presented by Ally coming to the Wisconsin venue this year, Koepka chatted with the USGA about the U.S. Open and the strategy it takes to prevail at Erin Hills.
Question: Growing up, did you dream about winning the U.S. Open?
Koepka: I just dreamed about making it. I don't think maybe the dreams got as far as I've gotten. But then again, you’ve got to reassess when you get a little bit older. But, yeah, winning a major was definitely high on the list.
Question: Erin Hills was your first major victory, and you got off to a great start that final day with birdies on one and two. Did that beginning give you the belief that this might be your day?
Koepka: No, I try not to get too far ahead. Just stay in the moment and stay very present. I think that's huge. But any time you get off to a good start at a major championship on the final day, it definitely calms you. And anytime you make two birdies in the U.S. Open, you're doing something right.
Question: How did Erin Hills suit your game?
Koepka: Suited my game pretty good, I'd say. I liked it, it was fun. A fun course to play. I think we had something there, a U.S. Junior or Amateur back in the day. So, I’d played it. I didn't do very good, I don't think I made it to match play. But I had at least an understanding of the golf course. I like it when it gets tough. And every shot means that much more.
Question: Do you have any favorite holes at Erin Hills?
Koepka: I think probably the 15th hole. I think it's arguably one of the tougher holes out there. And it really shaped the ending of that golf tournament for me, being able to capitalize on that hole was crucial and helped lead the last three holes and calm the nerves a little bit.
Question: Looking back, as you walked up the 18th fairway approaching the green, knowing you're going to be the U.S. Open champion, what does that mean to you?
Koepka: It means the world to me. The U.S. Open's typically on Father's Day. To be able to call my dad when I got done and talk to him, that was pretty cool. Obviously, being a new dad, if I'm able to do that, it'll have a deeper, newer meaning for me.
Question: As the world's best female golfers prepare for the U.S. Women's Open at Erin Hills this year, what kind of advice would you give them about playing the course?
Koepka: You already know it's going to be tough but just stay with it. Stay focused and be patient. That's what it takes. You guys already know that so just enjoy it. It's a fun golf course to play. Keep attacking it, be aggressive, hit it to the correct spots and you'll be just fine.