U.S. Open: Preview – Mickelson, McIlroy, Watson, Rose, Simpson among favorites at Pinehurst

PINEHURST, NC – Justin Rose is the defending U.S. Open champion, but Phil Mickelson has been a six-time runner-up in United States’ national golf championship. Webb Simpson won the event in 2012 and Rory McIlroy captured the title in 2011. Each of the past five tournaments has produced a first-time winner. What is in store for the 2014 U.S. Open golf championship?

WestwoodOne captured preview audio from some of the game’s biggest stars leading into this weekend’s event from Pinehurst Country Club. John Tautges anchors coverage of the U.S. Open on WestwoodOne.

(Phil Mickelson talks of handling six runner-up finishes)

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(Mickelson considers the possibility of getting a career grand slam)

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(2011 champ Rory McIlroy considers himself one of the favorites)

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(2012 champion Webb Simpson discusses playing in his home state)

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(Defending champ Justin Rose talks of potential for back-to-back Open titles)

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(Bubba Watson says the U.S. Open always brings new challenges)

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