Protest by Black teen golfer John Shippen impacts U.S. Open history

The 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills marks a pivotal moment in its history, recalling 1896 when a protest by white competitors sought to bar Black teenager John Shippen from participating. Shippen, who became the first American-born golf professional, ultimately played and tied for the lead after the first round, despite the discrimination he faced. His experience not only shaped the tournament's early narrative but also highlighted systemic racism in golf. This year's championship celebrates that history as it prepares for its sixth event at Shinnecock Hills.

• 1:16 PMYahoo Sports — U.S. Open 2026: The protest of a Black teenager that almost ended the U.S. Open before it began