Payne at Pinehurst by St. Martin's Griffin | A Memorable U.S. Open in the Carolina Sandhills

Relive a defining moment in golf history

Payne at Pinehurst offers a vivid, richly reported retelling of the 1999 U.S. Open held at Pinehurst No. 2. Widely celebrated as one of the Open’s finest chapters, the book centers on Payne Stewart’s clutch 15-foot putt on the 18th green, sealing victory over a field that included Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, and other Hall of Fame contenders. The narrative frames the event with care and context, inviting readers to feel the drama, the texture of the course, and the weight of the week’s expectations.

Author Bill Chastain blends extensive research with firsthand interviews to illuminate how Stewart navigated immense pressure, how the field battled Pinehurst’s demanding design, and how a single moment can define a championship in golf lore. The ambiance—sunlit greens, gusts off the Carolina pines, and the hushed crowd’s anticipation—adds a sensory layer that makes the historical record feel immediate and immersive.

What you’ll discover in Payne at Pinehurst

• A vivid, play-by-play re-creation of the 1999 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2.
• Insights into Payne Stewart’s preparation, mindset, and clutch performance under pressure.
• Profiles of key rivals—Mickelson, Woods, Duval, Singh—within a tightly paced narrative.
• Behind-the-scenes context drawn from interviews and archival reporting that enriches the storytelling.
• A strong sense of the course’s design, weather, and strategic choices that shaped the week.

Why this Open stands out in golf history

• The week is framed as a landmark moment in the Open’s long history and lore.
• The final moments capture a culmination of skill, nerve, and opportunity on Pinehurst’s famed greens.
• The book situates the victory within Stewart’s broader career arc and personal journey.
• Readers gain a historically grounded, character-driven perspective on championship golf.

Who should read this book

• Golf history enthusiasts seeking depth beyond statistics and outcomes.
• Sports fans who enjoy narrative-driven profiles of champions and rivals.
• General readers looking for a carefully researched, engaging sports story with momentum and clarity.

What to expect in tone and pacing

The narrative blends rigorous reporting with accessible storytelling, delivering a respectful, immersive account that honors a historic moment without overstatement. Expect a balance of detail, drama, and thoughtfully drawn context that enhances appreciation of the sport.