Tech
Jun 16, 20261
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Brooks Koepka to Compete at U.S. Open Despite Ulnar Nerve Flare-Up
Brooks Koepka will compete at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills despite an ulnar nerve flare-up causing numbness in his left hand's pinkie and ring fingers. After withdrawing from the Canadian Open, a neck scan came back negative, and Koepka confirmed he is physically capable of competing, though he described the sensation as feeling like hitting his funny bone continuously.




Quick Facts
Who
Brooks Koepka
What
ulnar nerve flare-up in left hand
When
Tuesday at U.S. Open
Where
Shinnecock Hills
- ulnar nerve flare-up in left hand
- withdrew from RBC Canadian Open
- neck scan performed
- preparing to compete at U.S. Open
- numbness in pinkie and ring fingers
Brooks Koepka is preparing to compete at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills despite managing an ulnar nerve flare-up in his left hand that has caused numbness in his pinkie and ring fingers. The four-time major champion withdrew from the RBC Canadian Open prior to Sunday's final round due to the issue but has since undergone a neck scan that returned negative results. Koepka described the sensation as feeling like continuously hitting his funny bone, though he emphasized there is no pain associated with the condition.
Koepka expressed confidence in his ability to compete, stating that his swing movement is unaffected despite the nerve issue. He noted that while his grip strength may not be at 100 percent, it is sufficient for tournament play. The golfer explained that during his swing, his ring finger and pinkie would feel weak, particularly during the transition and at turf impact, but he is comfortable returning to competition.
Returning to the site of his 2018 U.S. Open victory, Koepka feels encouraged by his current form. He described his ball striking as even better than during his previous championship year and highlighted solid putting performance in recent weeks. Koepka takes a pragmatic approach to Shinnecock Hills, which has hosted two U.S. Opens since his 2018 win. He noted that the greens appear slower and less firm than he remembered, and emphasized the need for creative strategy and precise angle selection on the Long Island course.
Koepka is scheduled to tee off Thursday at 7:30 a.m. ET. This marks his first return to Shinnecock Hills since winning the 2018 U.S. Open at 1 over par, and he is among six golfers making the transition from LIV Golf back to the PGA Tour who have recorded top-20 finishes. Despite the lingering nerve issue, Koepka remains focused on the challenge ahead.
Why This Matters
Koepka's decision to compete despite a nerve condition signals resilience and readiness for a major championship. For golf fans, this demonstrates how elite athletes manage injuries mid-tournament while maintaining competitive standards. The update also clarifies his health status after a high-profile withdrawal, reducing speculation about his long-term fitness and LIV-to-PGA transition performance.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2004
WireU.S. Open previously hosted at Shinnecock Hills
Jan 1, 2017
WireBrooks Koepka wins U.S. Open at Erin Hills
Jan 1, 2018
WireBrooks Koepka wins U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills at 1 over par
Jun 16, 2026
WireKoepka provides health update at U.S. Open; neck scan results confirmed negative
Jun 19, 2026
WireKoepka scheduled to tee off Thursday at 7:30 a.m. ET