The Open Championship is the most historic one.
The Masters iconic for so many reasons.
But perhaps is The U.S Open the tournament that truly singles out the best golfer.
I've had the luxury to play quite a few U.S Open venues; Pebble, Pinehurst, Erin Hills, Torrey Pines and Hazeltine are among the courses.
Fortunately enough I did not play them as they are when set up for toughest test in golf. "Fortunately", I am saying just due to the fact that it would not be enjoyable – in fact it could potentially be so humiliating that it would make me lose my love for the game.
My weaknesses would be exposed and I would understand what no one wants to understand about their game, that I suck.
I have once tried to qualify for this tournament. Back in 2010, one of the qualifiers were held at our university home course, a 20 minute drive from that year's tournament venue, Pebble Beach.
Rough was sticky and if you actually went in there you could've lost your shoes. Greens were so firm no pitch marks were to be found and faster than the wooden floor at our house. In addition to this the pins were put in positions that could actually be deemed impossible.
I'm not exaggerating when I say "most golfers would not finish".
Best score that day was even par, recorded by a player who went on to make it to the PGA Tour.
Whether in a qualifier or in the actual tournament itself, The U.S Open is about one thing, and one thing only; survival. It tests every part of your game; length, hight, accuracy, spin control, short game and putting – but more than anything your mental game, both in terms of strategy and your capability of handling set backs (because everyone has to face them at some point).
The course might even be perceived as unfair, and shots you are facing may actually be impossible. You will get frustrated. But how do you then handle that?
This is a test that is about keeping your cool, showing resilience, patience and wisdom – the hardest and most virtuous skills in golf.
Qualifiers are being arranged all over the world.
Everyone has the same goal.
Eventually one players wins – normally around level par.
This is why this tournament is the one that truly singles out the best golfer.
And this is why I find it to be one of the most interesting to watch.