US Open Golf 2012: Webb Simpson's Shocking Win a Big Positive for PGA Tour

In one of the most volatile seasons in PGA Tour history, Webb Simpson's win at the 2012 US Open should turn into a huge victory for the sport of golf. 

Heading into the US Open, all the talk was about Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Bubba Watson being paired together. Woods had just won the Memorial Tournament two weeks ago, and a return to form here would do wonders for television ratings and mainstream buzz. 

By the time Sunday rolled around, Woods, Mickelson and Watson were non-factors in this tournament and the story was all the surprises at the top of the leaderboard. 

Perennial fan favorite Jim Furyk was in charge for most of the final round, but Simpson wound up being the beneficiary of two terrific rounds on Saturday and Sunday before finishing his day watching the end of the event from the clubhouse. 

For those who like drama from their major championships, Graeme McDowell had a chance to force an 18-hole playoff with a birdie putt on the final hole. It stayed just left of the cup, and Simpson celebrated Father's Day with a US Open title. 

Golf needed a great story to get behind for this tournament. I don't care about television ratings, or being a lead story on Good Morning America, because Woods won an event. I care about seeing great stories and new stars emerge. 

Simpson has had a solid career before this tournament, with three career PGA Tour wins and a top-20 finish at last year's British Open. He has finished in the top 10 five times this year alone, so he is not a scrub that won't be in contention for a major championship ever again. 

At just 26 years old, Simpson is entering the physical prime of his life. He managed to put up two rounds under par at the Olympic Club this weekend, when players like Woods and Mickelson were shooting 148 and 149, respectively, on Saturday and Sunday combined. 

Simpson gives the PGA a new star it can build around. Much like Rory McIlroy was the story of the 2011 US Open, Simpson can become the newest sensation to captivate the golf world. He has shown the mettle it takes to win on a brutal course. 

All Simpson has to do now is build on this moment. Given his steely demeanor over the weekend, this could be just the beginning for Simpson. The PGA and golf fans around the world should celebrate this victory with the underdog Simpson. 

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