Post’s Picks: Twelve Players to Watch at the 126th U.S. Open

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Several top golfers, including world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, defending champion J.J. Spaun, and Rory McIlroy, are set to compete at the upcoming U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills. Their recent performances and unique strengths will be tested on the course’s challenging conditions, making this tournament a critical opportunity for major titles and career milestones.

As the 126th U.S. Open approaches at Shinnecock Hills, a spotlight falls on a select group of golfers expected to make significant impacts, including established stars and rising talents.

Scottie Scheffler, currently ranked No. 1 in the world, enters the tournament with a strong track record despite a less dominant season and visible frustration at the recent Memorial Tournament. Since the start of 2024, Scheffler has amassed 14 victories but has yet to secure the U.S. Open title, the only major missing from his career Grand Slam quest. His 2026 season features a scoring average of 68.07 and seven top-10 finishes, although he has not yet captured a win this year.

Chris Gotterup, a native of the Jersey Shore, has emerged as a player to watch after an impressive start to 2026 that includes two victories. With four wins over the past two years, Gotterup’s game is characterized by powerful driving and accuracy under windy conditions, attributes that could prove advantageous on Shinnecock’s challenging layout. He holds a scoring average of 69.46 and has logged four top-10 finishes this season.

Xander Schauffele, known for his mental toughness and consistent ball striking, has struggled to claim a title in 2026 despite strong performances. The 2024 British Open and PGA Championship winner has recorded nine consecutive top-15 finishes in major championships, underscoring his steady presence in high-stakes tournaments. His 2026 performance includes four top-10 showings and a scoring average of 69.54.

Matt Fitzpatrick, the 2022 U.S. Open champion, has seen his form cool somewhat after securing three PGA Tour wins earlier this year. Renowned for his patient, error-free style, Fitzpatrick has adapted by increasing his strength and length, bolstering his potential to contend once again. He holds a 2026 scoring average of 68.94 and has achieved one tournament win along with four top-10 finishes.

Defending champion J.J. Spaun captured the title at Oakmont in 2025 and has maintained a solid but uneven season, including a victory at the Valero Texas Open. While posting commendable results with top-12 finishes in recent events, Spaun faced setbacks by missing the cut at both the Masters and the PGA Championship. His current world ranking stands at ninth, with a scoring average of 70.15 in 2026.

Rory McIlroy, who achieved the career Grand Slam with his first Masters win last year and recently defended that title, brings experience and confidence as the world’s No. 2 player. With a scoring average of 69.12 and multiple top-10 finishes this season, McIlroy enters the U.S. Open looking to add to his major championship tally while playing without the pressure of unmet goals.

As the U.S. Open approaches, these players and others will face Shinnecock Hills’ demanding conditions, where form, resilience, and adaptability could determine who rises to claim one of golf’s most coveted trophies.