USGA vows smoother Shinnecock Open after past chaos
USGA officials at the 2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills outlined a plan to avoid repeats of the 2004 and 2018 chaos, including syringe-like watering of greens between waves, slightly earlier tee times, and weather-focused adjustments as forecasts call for strong winds, aiming for a fairer, more consistent playing surface; even Rory McIlroy, initially skeptical, grew to support the approach.