Wind, Routing, and Shinnecock: The U.S. Open's Central Character
Shinnecock Hills is the centerpiece of the 126th U.S. Open as its Flynn-era triangle routing and coastal winds create a test where the course itself largely determines the outcome; the USGA plans to keep fairways near club norms and greens around 10.5 on the Stimpmeter, with afternoon watering to stay playable, setting up a wind-driven challenge that could crown a major champion as stars like Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, and Brooks Koepka chase history.