U.S. Open: Top 10 sleepers for Erin Hills

Martin Kaymer — No. 53

This German national isn’t exactly striping it at the moment, but he’s been known to pop up when we least expect it. Kaymer’s 2014 victories at Pinehurst and TPC Sawgrass were his only top 10s in the first eight months of that year, so he’s proven his ability to find that extra gear at the majors. For that reason, we can’t rule him out of this year’s U.S. Open, even if his recent play has been a little lacking.

After tying for 69th at THE PLAYERS Championship and missing the cut at the BMW PGA Championship — both events where he’s done well in the past — Kaymer doesn’t have much momentum to speak of. That being said, he’s demonstrated pretty good overall form this year, picking up seven top 25 finishes in 11 events. His three career top 15s at the U.S. Open should help him navigate the unfamiliar layout at Erin Hills; plus, by finding the top 20 in each of his last two major starts, Kaymer has proven that he still has that big-stage potential from his younger days.

He’s not a great choice for your one-and-done league, but don’t sleep on Kaymer at the U.S. Open. This year’s new venue could provide the perfect opportunity for an experienced veteran to rise up and take the whole thing.