The USGA has adjusted its setup plans for the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills to handle expected strong winds. Officials began modifying the course last Friday after forecasts indicated sustained winds of 12 to 24 miles per hour on Thursday with gusts reaching the mid-30s.
John Bodenhamer, the USGA’s chief championships officer, outlined the weather outlook during a Wednesday press conference in Southampton, N.Y. Thursday is forecast for the strongest winds, with some models showing gusts above 40 miles per hour. Friday and Saturday should bring lighter conditions, though Saturday afternoon may see gusts return to the 30s.
To keep greens playable, the USGA will water the course more liberally, reduce green speeds to 10.5 on the Stimpmeter, and use syringing between morning and afternoon waves. Play in the first two rounds will start at 6:35 a.m. to allow time for these measures.
Bodenhamer said the changes aim to deliver consistent conditions and maintain competitive fairness. The adjustments follow criticism of past Shinnecock setups, including in 2018 when winds dried out the greens.
