Sport: Tennis Category: Scores & Results

USGA to water greens at US Open for fairer play

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 6:35 PM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

USGA to water greens at US Open for fairer play

Summary

The US Golf Association will implement a watering strategy for greens at the 126th US Open, taking place at Shinnecock on Thursday and Friday. Greens will be syringed between morning and afternoon player waves to maintain playable conditions amid forecasted gusty winds of up to 36 mph. USGA officials, addressing past criticisms of course conditions, aim to ensure competitive fairness while acknowledging the challenging environment. Adjustments to green speeds have also been made, with a commitment to managing hole placements in relation to wind. Comprehensive plans are in place to adapt to real-time weather conditions throughout the tournament.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Greens will be syringed to keep conditions playable.
•Gusty winds up to 36 mph are expected during the tournament.
•Green speeds will be dialed back to the lowest levels since 1995.
•Officials are adjusting hole placements based on wind direction.
•John Bodenhamer emphasizes fairness in the tournament setup.

Latest Updates

6:35 PMYahoo Sports — USGA will water greens between waves at US Open

What they're saying

"
Greens will be watered between Thursday and Friday morning and afternoon waves of US Open players at Shinnecock to keep conditions playable in gusty winds, US Golf Association officials said Wednesday."We will syringe the greens on Thursday and Friday.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Tennis