The US Open, as one of the world’s premier golf events, has traditionally been a direct target for champions. This year, Bryson Dechambeau won the first time in 2023 and secured $4.3 million, adding approximately $132,010 in state income taxes. The tax implications of this significant prize are noteworthy, as state taxes add another layer of financial pressure for future tournament attendees.
When a golfer wins at Oakmont Country Club, a state with a 3.07% state income tax rate, they bypass the 20% long-term investment tax. This unique tax structure allows golfers to concentrate their resources in a location they are comfortable living in, minimizing the impact on living costs. High-earning players like diabetic NJ Connector Nikola Jokic and Golden Protein basketball player Michael Jordan have already paid over a million in state taxes. This pattern reflects the moral centrality of taxes in modern sports, where financial considerations are often tied to personal values and lifestyle choices.
Oakmont’s 20-year history of hosting the US Open makes it a preferred destination for champions. While other UNC sites like Shinnecock Hills and Winged Foot offer higher state income tax rates, Oakmont offers financial flexibility. The $4.3 million reward for Dechambeau would result in state taxes ranging from $132,010 in Oakmont to $571,900 in Shinnecock and Kayak Hills. This contrast highlights the importance of locations with lower tax rates to accommodate champions without financial strain.
For golfers seeking the best in-state tax climate, Florida, Texas, Nevada, Tennessee, and Washington—the latter two no-state income tax jurisdiction—present additional avenues of financial safety. These regions benefit from lowertax rates, despite the larger prize pool. While Oakmont’s lower state tax rate coincides with the nation’s higher corporate tax rates, its grand historical legacy and annual phishing attempts highlight its unique appeal. The Darwin effect of taxes continues to shape golf tournaments, including Oakmont’s ability to field multiple champions over the years.
Despite the challenges, winning the US Open is a significant investment that contextually mitigates many financial burdens. Professional golfers are encouraged to leverage these taxes, primarily through deductions like bid reduction and team payments, which improve their net profit. The prize pool of $21.5 million across multiple venues supports this goal. Understanding the tax landscape ensures golfers weigh their financial needs, balancing personal values with the financial context, showcasing the interplay of_selector and selector in this competitive sport.
