SAN FRANCISCO – Rod Pampling actually used the words “very enjoyable” and “U.S. Open” in the same sentence.

Then again, it was the Sunday before the so-called toughest test in golf gets under way at The Olympic Club. He was among a few dozen players who took advantage of mild sunshine and no stress on the final day before the gates open to the second major of the year.

Luke Donald, the world No. 1, and PGA champion Keegan Bradley played a friendly match that came down to the 18th hole. Behind them were former U.S. Open champion Graeme McDowell and Kevin Chappell, who at least have an idea what to expect this week.

McDowell said it was a fair test, though he was concerned how firm some of the greens were getting.