Brooks Koepka to Compete in 2026 U.S. Open Despite Left-Hand Nerve Issues

Brooks Koepka, the 36-year-old five-time major champion, has confirmed his participation in the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York, despite experiencing weakness and numbness in his left hand that forced him to withdraw from the RBC Canadian Open. The symptoms, which began Friday night and intensified during his Saturday warmup, affected his pinkie and ring fingers, making it difficult to maintain grip on the golf club.

Koepka underwent medical imaging of his cervical spine—specifically his C5, C6, and C7 vertebrae—at facilities in Canada and New York following the incident. The scans came back clear, ruling out complications from a 2021 herniation. His medical team identified two potential causes: a flare-up of the ulnar nerve, which runs down the arm and can become irritated from repetitive use, or Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, which involves pressure on nerves or blood vessels between the neck and shoulder. Both conditions can cause finger weakness and numbness.

Despite the nerve-related symptoms, Koepka reported no pain and noted significant improvement by Tuesday. He played a nine-hole practice round on the course and expressed confidence in his condition. "It's getting better day by day," Koepka said. "I don't think the grip strength is a hundred percent, but it's good enough." He described the sensation as similar to repeatedly hitting one's funny bone, and emphasized that the unusual absence of pain made the situation feel counterintuitive.

Koepka previously won the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills in 2018, finishing one stroke ahead of Tommy Fleetwood. Since returning to the PGA Tour from LIV Golf in January 2026, he has compiled six top-25 finishes in 12 starts. Heading into the 126th U.S. Open, Koepka indicated his game is in good form, noting his ball striking and recent putting performance. He is scheduled to tee off Thursday at 7:30 a.m. ET alongside Chris Gotterup and Cam Young.