The toughest test in golf is back.
This week, the world's best players head to historic Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in New York for the 126th U.S. Open, one of golf's four major championships and arguably the most demanding event on the calendar.
Known for brutal rough, lightning-fast greens and zero room for error, the U.S. Open has a reputation for exposing every weakness in a golfer's game. Survive four rounds here and you've earned every shot.
When Is The U.S. Open?
The championship runs from June 18–21 (U.S. time), which means Australian viewers can catch the action from Thursday night through to Monday morning.
How To Watch In Australia
Australian golf fans can watch every round live on FOX SPORTS via Foxtel and Kayo Sports. Coverage typically begins from around 8:30pm AEST for the opening rounds and runs overnight into the morning.
Australian Viewing Times (AEST)
- Round 1: Thursday night from approximately 8:30pm
- Round 2: Friday night from approximately 8:30pm
- Round 3: Saturday night into Sunday morning
- Final Round: Sunday night into Monday morning
Who Should You Keep An Eye On?
Scottie Scheffler
The World No.1 arrives as the tournament favourite and is chasing golfing history. A victory at Shinnecock would complete the career Grand Slam, putting him alongside some of the greatest names the game has ever seen.
Why he can win:
- Elite ball striking
- Consistent major championship form
- Handles difficult scoring conditions better than almost anyone
Rory McIlroy
Rory enters the week with confidence after another strong major season and remains one of the most dangerous players in the field. His ability to flight the ball in windy conditions could be a huge advantage at Shinnecock.
Why he can win:
- Proven major championship performer
- Excellent off the tee
- Experience on firm, fast courses
Bryson DeChambeau
Love him or hate him, Bryson is always a factor at the U.S. Open. Already a two-time champion, his power game can overpower courses that frustrate other players.
Why he can win:
- Massive distance advantage
- Thrives under pressure
- Proven U.S. Open pedigree
Jon Rahm
The Spaniard has quietly put together another impressive season and is one of the most complete players in world golf. If conditions get difficult, Rahm is exactly the type of player who can grind his way into contention.
The Dark Horses
Matt Fitzpatrick
A former U.S. Open champion whose game is perfectly suited to tough, windy conditions. He may not grab the headlines, but he knows how to navigate brutal setups.
Ludvig Åberg
The young Swede continues to look like a future major champion. If he gets hot with the putter, don't be surprised to see him on the first page of the leaderboard come Sunday.
Cameron Young
Playing in front of a home New York crowd, Young has the length and aggressive style to make some noise this week.
The Aussie Watch
Australian fans will be keeping a close eye on Adam Scott, who is set to match Jack Nicklaus's remarkable record of 100 consecutive major championship appearances. It's an incredible achievement and another reminder of Scott's longevity at the highest level.
Our Pick
If we're backing one player this week, it's Scottie Scheffler.
The World No.1 has been the benchmark in golf for several seasons now, and his all-around game is built for a U.S. Open setup. If he drives it well, the rest of the field could be playing for second place.
That said, don't count out Rory McIlroy. When he's confident and swinging freely, he's capable of producing something special.
Either way, expect plenty of drama, plenty of carnage and one of the best weekends of golf on the calendar.
Grab your mates, stay up late, and enjoy one of the toughest tests in sport.
Game on.