2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills: A Classic Major Test

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From The Smylie Kaufman Show

Previewing the 2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club

The 2026 US Open is set to take place from June 18th to 21st at the historic Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York. Noted for its challenging layout and rich history, the club stands out among Northeastern golf courses. Shinnecock Hills was originally designed by CB McDonald and Seth Rayner and later redesigned by William Flynn in 1931. This redesign occurred after the club was forced to acquire new land due to a highway extension, giving Flynn the opportunity to devise a new 18-hole routing while retaining some elements from the 1901 design.

Shinnecock Hills is famously tough, typical of a US Open venue. It features rolling sandy terrain and was last renovated in 2013 by Bill Corr and Ben Crenshaw. In 2018, it played as a par 70, stretching 7,440 yards. The course record is shared by Tommy Fleetwood and Adam Scott, both scoring 63.

Looking forward to the tournament, Smylie Kaufman discussed potential winners, highlighting Scotty Scheffler and Rory McIlroy as strong contenders based on their impressive track records in previous US Opens. Kaufman also noted a dark horse in Ludwig Oberg, suggesting that despite a mixed record, Oberg's potential could see him excel in the challenging conditions expected at Shinnecock Hills.