Photo: Courtesy of American Express
American Express ambassador and golfer Tony Finau is bringing his six career wins to the 2023 U.S. Open Championship.
Backed by the USGA, a non-profit organization that celebrates, serves, and advances the game of golf, this is the first time in 75 years that the Championship will be returning to Los Angeles, California. It will take place at The Los Angeles Country Club from June 12-18, 2023.
“I love playing the U.S. Open. It was the first major I ever played back in 2015 at Chambers Bay. It’s always a great challenge between the setup of the golf courses and caliber of players. It’s fun playing at a different course each year, and I’m looking forward to playing at LACC for the first time as a professional,” said Finau.
As part of the experience, American Express® Card Members can watch Finau and their favorite players with premium views of the golf course at the Amex® Card Member Lounge - or tune in live through Amex radios1 as they purchase refreshments from the Amex Food Garden including the community’s beloved Korean BBQ from LA-based Kogi BBQ, among other small businesses. Additionally, Card Members and their guests at the Lounge can mint a POAP2, a digital collectible, that they can use to access an exclusive, limited-edition merch collection created by Metalwood Studio.
And to help mark this year’s Championship, Finau participated in an exclusive Q&Amex to share his favorite U.S. Open memory, the importance of preparation and what he’s most passionate about off the course.
Do you have a favorite memory from participating in the U.S. Open over the years?
Finau: 2018 at Shinnecock. The final round on Sunday was an incredible atmosphere. Although I didn’t get the result I hoped for, it was such a memorable experience. As cool and exciting as that was, I’ll hopefully have a new favorite memory by the end of this week.
Last year, I had a really great time at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts, giving one Card Member’s family an exclusive look inside the ropes during my practice round. It was great meeting the family and talking with them about our shared passion for golf. It’s cool to be able to offer our fans that kind of experience.
Do you have any personal goals or expectations for the year that you would consider “wins”?
Finau: I think every guy out here has the goal of winning tournaments and Majors. I’m no different. But big picture, when I think about expectations, I really just want to continue to get a little better every day. There’s been a lot of discussion in the sports world recently on measuring success and, for me, if I can leave each tournament with gratitude and knowing I’ve gained more learned experience that’s extremely valuable to me.
What keeps the game interesting to you?
Finau: Every week is a new test for us out here. Even during a four-day tournament at the same course, every day is different with tee and pin positions, weather, and other factors that require a lot of preparation. There’s always ways to improve and make your game better. That’s what keeps me coming back, for sure.
What’s a pro-tip you have for the golf community that has helped you in the game?
Finau: I think there’s a lot of information on how to improve your swing and your game, but so much about golf is mental. It’s so important not to get discouraged out there and avoid letting a bad shot impact your round. There’s no secret formula – consistent practice is the best way to improve.
We love seeing the moments you share with your family on tour - with the Championship taking place during Father’s Day weekend, what do you enjoy most about taking the journey together?
Finau: Traveling on TOUR can be challenging, especially for my wife and me while raising a family. Family is super important to me, so being able to have those special moments with my wife and kids out here is very special to me. They’re my motivation and the reason I play this game, so being able to share my experience with them is something I’m truly grateful for.
Other than golf, what’s one thing not a lot of people might know about you – whether it’s another passion, talent, area of interest?
Finau: Community is very important to me, and I’m very passionate about the work that my foundation, the Tony Finau Foundation, is doing in my home state of Utah. We started the foundation eight years ago when I was a rookie on TOUR, and it moves me to see how much it’s grown since then. We strive to empower families and give kids the resources they need to reach their goals - whether it’s food, school supplies, or sports equipment. We just had our annual gala in May and it was a really special night thanks to the incredible support of so many in our community.
You may be surprised, but I cook quite a bit. I love making meals for my wife and family and experimenting with new and classic recipes and dishes. If I wasn't a pro golfer, I would be a chef, for sure.
To read more about how Finau and Amex work together to support the golf community, visit here.
1Radios available while supplies last, with any Amex Card. Limit one per Card.
2 Terms apply. Visit here for more details: https://www.americanexpress.com/us/campaigns/us-open-golf/offer-terms.html