Webb Simpson Triumphs in San Francisco With One-Shot Win at the U.S. Open

Tiger Woods may have faltered in the Bay Area, but another American was able to step up and triumph at the 2012 U.S. Open.

Webb Simpson won his first major title on Sunday at The Olympic Club in San Francisco, with a one-stroke victory over former U.S. Open champions Jim Furyk and Graeme McDowell.

Simpson, 26, finished 1-over 281, and it was his four birdies around the turn and a tough chip out of hole on the 18th green that he converted into par to finish 2-under-par 68.

While his opponents faded in the foggy conditions and at a difficult course, Simpson pared his final eight holes.

It was pretty nerve wracking, said Simpson after the victory. I knew it was a tough golf course.

McDowell, who won the U.S. Open in 2010, shared second place with Michael Thompson, who earned a name for himself in the tournament with an impressive early-round performance. Woods started the day five shots back, and shot a 73 to finish strokes behind.

But the day belonged to Simpson, a North Carolina native, who finished tied for 44th in the 2012 Masters.

It was a cool day, Simpson said. I had a peace all day. I knew it was a tough golf course. I probably prayed more the last three holes than I ever did in my life.