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McIlroy Targets Second U.S. Open Amid Windy Shinnecock Test

6/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rory McIlroy, the Masters champion, is seeking his second U.S. Open title at Shinnecock Hills.
He says the course is best championship test in the United States when weather and setup cooperate, demanding all aspects of the game.
He supports the USGA’s plan to lightly water the greens between waves to keep conditions fair.
He notes 35-40 mph winds on Thursday and Friday could make the 45-yard-wide fairways feel much narrower.

History

Historical Context

After Johnny Miller’s record-low 63 at the 1973 U.S. Open prompted the USGA to toughen course setups, Hale Irwin won the 1974 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills with a seven-over-par total amid 30-mph winds. The event reinforced the USGA’s trend toward harsher conditions and water-saving policies for future championships in the United States.

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Story summary

Rory McIlroy, the Masters champion, is seeking his second U.S. Open title at Shinnecock Hills.
He says the course is best championship test in the United States when weather and setup cooperate, demanding all aspects of the game.
He supports the USGA’s plan to lightly water the greens between waves to keep conditions fair.
He notes 35-40 mph winds on Thursday and Friday could make the 45-yard-wide fairways feel much narrower.

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