126th U.S. Open Golf Championship 2026: Everything You Need to Know Playing at Shinnecock Hills, NY

— The U.S. Open has long been regarded as the toughest test in golf, and in 2026 it returns to one of America’s most iconic and demanding venues.Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York, hosts the 126th U.S. Open. Originally designed in 1891 by William Flynn and renovated by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw in 2013, the course is a classic links-style layout with rolling fairways, fescue rough, heavy bunkering, and firm, fast greens.

Strong winds off the Atlantic Ocean often make it a brutal examination of golf.Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy headline a star-studded field as they chase their next major title. Brooks Koepka, who won the last U.S. Open held at Shinnecock Hills in 2018, will be among the top contenders once again.

Facts and Figures for the 126th U.S. Open Golf Championship

Dates: June 18–21, 2026

Site: Shinnecock Hills Golf Club

Location: Southampton, New York

Length: 7,440 yards

Par: 70

Cut: Top 60 and ties

Playoff (if necessary): Two-hole aggregate immediately after 72 holes

Field: 156 players

Purse: To be confirmed (expected to exceed $22 million)

Defending Champion: JJ Spaun

How Can I Watch the 2026 US Open?

NBC and its platforms will provide comprehensive coverage of the U.S. Open. Full broadcast details and times will be released closer to the event, with USA Network, NBC, and Peacock expected to deliver wall-to-wall action across all four days.

Who Are the U.S. Open 2026 Betting Odds Favorites?

Scottie Scheffler enters as the clear favorite. Rory McIlroy, Xander Schauffele, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jon Rahm are expected to follow closely behind in the odds. Brooks Koepka’s history at Shinnecock Hills makes him a dangerous each-way contender. Full betting odds will firm up as the tournament approaches.

What’s at Stake?

The U.S. Open trophy remains unnamed. The winner receives the gold medal named after Jack Nicklaus and a significantly boosted prize money payout. The champion earns a 10-year exemption into future U.S. Opens and five-year exemptions into the other three majors.

What Happens in Case of a Playoff in the U.S. Open?

The U.S. Open uses a two-hole aggregate playoff immediately following the completion of 72 holes. This format has been in place since 2018.

What’s the Weather Forecast for 2026 U.S. Open?

Weather updates will be provided closer to the event. Shinnecock Hills’ coastal location means wind will likely be the biggest factor, with potential for firm, fast conditions throughout the week.

Who Won the Last U.S. Open Golf in 2025?

JJ Spaun won the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club. He became a first-time major champion with a dramatic victory, finishing as the only player under par for the week after holing a long birdie putt on the 72nd hole.

2026 U.S. Open TV Schedule, Times

Full TV coverage details (all times EDT) will be confirmed closer to the event. Expect similar structure to previous years with early coverage on USA Network/Peacock and primetime slots on NBC.

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