Mike Davis reflects on past U.S. Open course setups ahead of 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 1:11 PM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

Mike Davis reflects on past U.S. Open course setups ahead of 2026

Summary

Mike Davis, former CEO of the USGA, returns to Shinnecock Hills Golf Club for the 2026 U.S. Open. After leaving the USGA in 2021, Davis no longer faces the pressure of course setup, yet he feels nostalgia about the role that brought him fulfillment. He reminisced about the controversial setups at the 2004 and 2018 U.S. Opens, particularly at Shinnecock, where conditions faced heavy criticism. Davis stated that setting up the course remains a challenge due to its sandy soil, which dries out quickly. He continues to engage with the championship as a fan rather than an organizational leader.

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By the Numbers

•Mike Davis attended the U.S. Open every year as a guest since 2021.
•The 2004 U.S. Open setup at Shinnecock faced severe criticism.
•Davis emphasized Shinnecock's unique challenges due to sandy soil.
•In 2018, player complaints arose about overly difficult conditions.
•Davis reflected on the nostalgia of his previous role in course setups.

Latest Updates

1:11 PMYahoo Sports — Former USGA chief Mike Davis got beat up over the course setup at the 2018 U.S. Open. Thankfully, the bruises have healed

What they're saying

"
The former USGA CEO left the organization in 2021 and no longer endures course setup pressure, but he also doesn't have the opportunity to tackle something that brought him years of fulfillment
— Yahoo Sports

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