U.S. Open 2024: Min Woo Lee confronts Pinehurst fox squirrel, lives to tell the tale

As the U.S. Open gears up at Pinehurst No. 2, the course is already buzzing with activity, and not just from the golfers. Min Woo Lee, the Australian pro, has been honing his skills for the year’s third major, but his time on the course has taken an unexpected turn. Lee has found himself playing the role of a modern-day David Attenborough, documenting his encounters with the local wildlife—specifically, the native fox squirrels that roam the revered grounds of Pinehurst.

Lee’s fascination with these critters is palpable. In a video that has quickly garnered attention, he is seen observing one of the squirrels with a mix of curiosity and amusement. “Hello, Pinehurst. What is this animal?” Lee asks, evidently puzzled by the creature’s appearance. “Is it a skunk or a raccoon or a squirrel? Ayy ay ay ay ayy. Stay back, brother. Stay back. You want something? Look at his stance. Oi! Stay back, brother. I just want to get a side profile. Just chilling.”
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The fox squirrels of Pinehurst are renowned for their boldness and mischievous behavior. These animals, which have become an unofficial mascot for the area, are comfortable around people, even those wielding golf clubs. For Min Woo Lee, encountering one of these squirrels might be a warm, albeit unusual, welcome to his first major tournament at Pinehurst No. 2. Or perhaps the squirrel was merely in search of a snack, possibly enticed by the scent of granola in one of the golfer’s bags.

The fox squirrels of Pinehurst have garnered a range of reactions from the local community. Some visitors to the course express fondness for these creatures, considering them their favorite animals. On the other hand, there are those who are less enamored, referring to them as “little rats.” Despite the divided opinions, it appears that Min Woo Lee has taken a liking to these cheeky inhabitants, which could bode well for his experience on the course. After all, you wouldn’t want to start off on the wrong foot with Pinehurst’s resident varmints.

As Lee continues to prepare for the U.S. Open, it’s clear that his time at Pinehurst will be memorable not just for the golf, but for his unique encounters with the course’s native wildlife. The fox squirrels, with their charming yet audacious presence, add an unexpected element to the prestigious tournament, reminding everyone that the natural inhabitants of the course have their own special role to play.