The 2026 U.S. Open is shaping up to be a thrilling affair, with a diverse field of players vying for the coveted title at Shinnecock Hills. This year's tournament promises to be a true test of golf's elite, as the top 26 players battle it out on one of the sport's most challenging courses. With a mix of established stars and rising talents, the field is wide open, and the excitement is palpable.
One player who stands out as a clear favorite is Scottie Scheffler. The world No. 1 has dominated the PGA Tour, leading in most scoring categories and showcasing a well-rounded game. While his iron play has lagged recently, Scheffler's overall prowess and mental fortitude make him a strong contender. The fact that he's the best player in the world, no matter the course, is a testament to his skill and adaptability.
Rory McIlroy, a six-time major champion, is another player to watch. McIlroy's recent reinvention of his physical and mental approach to U.S. Opens has been remarkable. Despite some wayward drives this season, the wide-fairways at Shinnecock Hills could play to his advantage, allowing him to showcase his precision and angles. McIlroy's history at this championship and his recent form make him a serious contender.
Xander Schauffele, a two-time major champion, has consistently performed well in the U.S. Open, never finishing outside the top 15. His game is well-suited for the test, and his recent success at both the Masters and PGA Championship further cements his status as a top player. While some may desire more from his current form, Schauffele's sturdy foundation and versatility make him a dark horse in this tournament.
Cameron Young, a New Yorker with ties to Sleepy Hollow, brings an abundance of quality to his game. His recent success at The Players Championship and his T4 finish at Oakmont last year make him a player to watch. Young's ability to translate his skills to Shinnecock Hills, a course that demands precision and accuracy, could be a significant advantage.
Jon Rahm, the 2021 U.S. Open champion, is another player with a strong case. Rahm's recent performance at the PGA Championship and his top-10 finish at Valderrama showcase his competitive spirit and iron play. With a pace for his best iron season since 2023, Rahm is a force to be reckoned with.
Matt Fitzpatrick, the man with the most wins on the PGA Tour this season, has been a relative non-factor in major championships. However, his understanding of U.S. Open golf and his sensational pitching and chipping make him a player to watch. Fitzpatrick's game has fallen slightly since his recent win, but his experience and skill set him up for success.
Russell Henley, the best value on the board, has a history of success at Shinnecock Hills. His first-round leadership in 2018 and his recent top-15 finishes in the championship showcase his ability to contend. Henley's accuracy, precision, and confidence, coupled with his win at Colonial, make him a dark horse in this tournament.
Ludvig Åberg, ranked third on the PGA Tour in terms of total strokes gained, has yet to secure a win. However, his recent performances in The Players and the PGA Championship, coupled with his patience and talent, make him a player to watch. Åberg's ability to stay in contention on Sunday, despite some struggles, is a testament to his resilience.
Tommy Fleetwood, the runner-up in 2018, has been working on his game and feeling the Sunday jitters for the first time in a while. His near-miss at the Memorial and his recent improvement in performance make him a player to watch. Fleetwood's experience and precision could be a significant advantage at Shinnecock Hills.
Patrick Reed, a lightly run horse, brings artistry, angles, and short-game wizardry to the course. His recent major championships and his ability to prepare for a long, European summer make him a player to watch. Reed's history at the U.S. Open and his recent form showcase his resilience and skill.
Justin Rose, the 2013 U.S. Open champion, has emerged from a slump with fresh tires and an engine capable of running down the world's best. His top-10 finish at the PGA Championship and his recent run at Jack's Place put any concerns to rest. Rose's experience and precision make him a serious contender.
Bryson DeChambeau, the 2020 and 2024 U.S. Open champion, has faced some skepticism due to his recent major cuts and LIV Golf performances. However, his top-10 finishes and trophies in the U.S. Open showcase his skill and adaptability. DeChambeau's ability to perform on different courses and his recent success make him a player to watch.
Sam Burns, a member of the final group in the final round at Oakmont, has continued to perform well on difficult golf courses. His recent finishes at the Masters and the Memorial, coupled with his iron play, make him a potential first-time major winner in the U.S. Open.
J.J. Spaun, the defending champion, brings a recent trend of success to the tournament. His runs at Quail Hollow, Colonial, and Muirfield Village showcase his ability to summon magic on the greens. Spaun's recent form and his history at Shinnecock Hills make him a strong contender.
Chris Gotterup, a two-time winner this season, has shown his game's ability to stack up with the elites, even when not at its best. His creativity and shot-making, coupled with his top-25 finishes in the first two majors, make him a player to watch. Gotterup's experience and skill set him up for success at Shinnecock Hills.
Wyndham Clark, a rising star, has tightened up his golf swing and filled himself with confidence. His win at the Byron Nelson and close calls at the Memorial and Canadian Open showcase his potential. Clark's recent form and his ability to perform under pressure make him a player to watch.
Collin Morikawa, a talented player, is dealing with a nagging back injury and the recent birth of his child. While his game is tailored for the U.S. Open, his seemingly less-than-fully healthy nature has him lower than he should be. Morikawa's recent top-25 finishes and his precision make him a player to watch.
Tyrrell Hatton, a fiery competitor, has the makeup to survive grueling tests. His recent win at Valderrama and his near-miss at the U.S. Open showcase his ability to perform under pressure. Hatton's all-around game and his resilience make him a player to watch.
Justin Thomas, with five straight top-25 finishes, has shown a show of form on more difficult golf courses. His recent performance and his ability to keep the ball in front of him make him a player to watch. Thomas's recent cuts and his precision make him a serious contender.
Brooks Koepka, a five-time major champion, has faced some struggles in majors but has always been able to get up for the U.S. Open. His recent hand injury and his ability to perform on this course make him a player to watch. Koepka's experience and precision could be a significant advantage.
Patrick Cantlay, sneaky and lethal, has been finding his stride with lethal iron play. His recent performance and his ability to get the ball in the hole on the greens make him a player to watch. Cantlay's recent top-3 finishes and his precision showcase his skill.
Si Woo Kim, without a top 30 since his debut, brings a quality in his game unseen before. His recent podium finishes and top-10 result at the Memorial showcase his iron play. Kim's putting, an asset the last month, makes him a player to watch.
Aaron Rai, a top-20 finish at Jack's Place, has a game that isn't going to get him into too much trouble. His recent performance and his ability to follow up his PGA Championship victory make him a player to watch. Rai's precision and skill set him up for success at Shinnecock Hills.
Ryan Gerard, a slight tweak at address on the greens, has proven to be a complete game changer. His recent form and his ability to produce first-round leads and chances at winning make him a player to watch. Gerard's old-school approach and precision make him an entertaining watch.
Harris English, as underrated as they come, has three top 10s in his last six U.S. Opens. His recent form and his ability to perform under difficult conditions make him a player to watch. English's approach play and precision could be a significant advantage.
Hideki Matsuyama, held back by his inability to get off the tee, brings a unique skill set to the course. His iron play and hands make him a player to watch. Matsuyama's recent top-six finishes and his precision showcase his potential at Shinnecock Hills.
