Hunter Mahan has paid tribute to Ricky Barnes, one of two men currently leading the rain-affected US Open at Bethpage Black.
Mahan himself lies in a share of third along with Phil Mickelson, David Duval and England’s Ross Fisher, and is adamant that there is a long way to go yet.
“[Ricky]’s been playing on [the] Nationwide [tour], grinding away, trying to get back on [the PGA] Tour,” he explained.
“He's a very talented, strong. He has a really strong swing and good short game.
"He’s been very consistent on the Nationwide as well - made a bunch of cuts, nine top tens last year. I think he's a solid player – he just needs to get a little more momentum.”
However, the closer the finish line gets, the smaller the pin holes look, according to Mahan.
“They have a lot of holes [left], just like everybody. So you just have to keep playing, especially on this golf course.
“Every hole is tough. Every hole has double or bogey. You've got to be so patient out here. You can make some putts and birdies and you can get on a streak."