ESPN: 2026 U.S. Open Round 1 — Clark Takes Early Lead, Scheffler Struggles at Shinnecock

The 2026 U.S. Open got underway Thursday at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, with darkness suspending play before all competitors could complete their first rounds.

Early Leaderboard Picture

Wyndham Clark, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, holds the provisional lead at 6-under through 16 holes — a remarkable score given Shinnecock's notoriously demanding setup. Eight players are bunched at 2-under, including Matt Fitzpatrick, Dustin Johnson, Gary Woodland, Jon Rahm, and amateur Ryder Cowan, though several have yet to finish.

Notable Performances

- Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau are both sitting at 1-under, well within striking distance heading into Friday. - Scottie Scheffler, the world No. 1, is at 1-over and tied 48th — an uncharacteristically modest start that will require a strong comeback over the remaining rounds. - J.J. Spaun, last year's champion, carded a difficult 7-over first round, making a title defense look very unlikely.

Strokeslab Perspective

Shinnecock Hills is one of the most SG-punishing venues on the calendar. Clark's early advantage likely reflects strong SG: APP numbers on firm, fast greens. Scheffler's 1-over round warrants a closer look at his SG: OTT and SG: Putting splits — historical data suggests world No. 1s tend to correct quickly on courses of this caliber.