USGA adjusts Shinnecock Hills setup for 2026 U.S. Open

The United States Golf Association will use slower green speeds, adjusted hole locations, and light watering between morning and afternoon waves during the first two rounds of the 126th U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club. USGA chief championships officer John Bodenhamer said Wednesday the organization learned from the 2018 U.S. Open at the same course and has taken steps to avoid similar conditions.

He stated the USGA aims for Stimpmeter readings of about 10.5 on the poa annua greens, down from a previous target range of 11.5 to 12.0.

Course setup changes Bodenhamer said the USGA moved morning tee times forward by 10 minutes to allow roughly 30 minutes between waves for light watering, a process he compared to misting produce in a grocery store. Officials also plan to set hole locations with expected wind patterns in mind.

The changes come ahead of forecasts calling for sustained winds of 12 to 24 mph with gusts above 40 mph on Thursday. Bodenhamer noted that winds of that strength can make it difficult for golf balls to remain stationary on the greens.

Past conditions at Shinnecock Hills In 2004 and 2018, some players said the course became excessively firm and fast by the weekend. The average score on the final day in 2004 was 78.7, with 28 golfers failing to break 80. Bodenhamer said the USGA will allow firmness and speed to build gradually through the week rather than preparing the course for a full seven or eight days of U.S. Open conditions.

He added that the goal is to maintain the character of Shinnecock Hills while keeping play fair.