Watch: Bryson DeChambeau pays tribute to the late Payne Stewart after winning U.S. Open

Fittingly, the pin placement on 18 at this year's U.S. Open was identical to when Stewart nailed his historic shot over two decades ago. This means that DeChambeau's victory occurred on or near the same spot, only adding to the heartfelt homage. 

DeChambeau has long admired Stewart. Jason Sobel of Sirius/XM Radio noted that he decided to commit to SMU after learning that Stewart had also attended the university.

Like DeChambeau, Stewart's U.S. Open win came on a dramatic putt for par to avoid a playoff. However, it was also a redemption story, as Stewart had blown a four-shot advantage at the Open the previous year.

Sadly, it was the final of Stewart's three career major championships. Five months after his emotional win at Pinehurst, Stewart died in a plane crash on his way to that year's Tour Championship in Houston.