Closing the Deal

Best U.S. Open golf finishes before winning the tournament:

Payne Stewart Tied for fifth in 1985 before winning in 1991 (also won in 1999)

Steve Jones Tied for eighth in 1990 before winning in 1996

Corey Pavin Tied for eighth in 1991 before winning in 1995

Ernie Els Tied for seventh in 1993 before winning in 1994 (also won in 1998)

Lee Janzen Missed cut three times before winning in 1993 (also won in 1998)

Source: World Features Syndicate