Emerging
Jun 18, 2026 Major2
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Heavy Fog Suspends First Round of 126th U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills
The first round of the 126th U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills was suspended due to heavy fog just 30 minutes after play began. Only 12 to 14 golfers had completed a hole before officials halted play at 7:05 a.m. ET, citing unsafe visibility. The delay was expected to last over 30 minutes, with forecasts also calling for high winds and rain throughout the day.
Quick Facts
Who
USGA
What
first round suspended due to fog
When
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Where
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
- first round suspended due to fog
- play halted at 7:05 a.m. ET
- players brought into clubhouse
- course setup slowed green speeds and modified hole locations
- USGA
SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — The opening round of the 126th U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club was suspended Thursday morning due to heavy fog, just 30 minutes after the first group teed off. Officials halted play at 7:05 a.m. ET as thick fog blanketed the course, making it impossible for players to see the fairway or flag sticks from the tee box.
At the time of the stoppage, only 12 to 14 golfers had completed a single hole, and no birdies had been recorded. Players who were on the green were allowed to finish the hole before play was halted. Initially, golfers were told to hold their positions for 15 minutes in hopes of improved visibility, but they were later brought into the clubhouse as the fog persisted.
The USGA had already anticipated a challenging day due to forecasts of strong winds and possible storms. Gusts of up to 40 mph and a significant chance of rain and thunderstorms were expected throughout Thursday. In preparation, course setup staff had slowed green speeds and modified hole locations to account for the difficult conditions.
Notable players including Brooks Koepka, Rory McIlroy, and Scottie Scheffler were on the practice range preparing for their rounds when play was suspended. The delay was expected to last more than 30 minutes. Despite the halt, golfers who had not yet teed off were permitted to continue using the practice facilities.
The U.S. Open is the third major of the 2026 golf season, and the weather is expected to remain a major factor throughout the week. AccuWeather's forecast for Thursday called for a 55% chance of precipitation and a 33% chance of thunderstorms, with winds from the south exceeding 20 mph and gusts over 40 mph.
Topics
Why This Matters
The suspension of the U.S. Open's first round due to fog highlights how unpredictable weather can disrupt major sporting events, affecting scheduling, player preparation, and fan experience. For golf enthusiasts and bettors, this delay may alter outcomes as players face worsening conditions later in the day. It also underscores the importance of real-time weather monitoring for event organizers and attendees.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireFirst group tees off at Shinnecock Hills
Jun 18, 2026
WirePlay suspended due to heavy fog
Jun 18, 2026
WirePlayers initially held in place for 15 minutes
Jun 18, 2026
WirePlayers brought into clubhouse as fog persists