The 2026 U.S. Open field is set to be a fascinating contest, with a mix of established stars and rising talents. The tournament at Shinnecock Hills promises to be a true test of golf's elite, with a field of 156 players, including top professionals, amateurs, and everyone in between. As we rank the top 26 players, it's clear that the U.S. Open is a unpredictable beast, with surprise winners emerging from unexpected places.
The Favorites:
- Scottie Scheffler (T2 in 2022): Scheffler is undoubtedly the best player in the world right now. His well-rounded game, coupled with his dominance in scoring categories, makes him a strong favorite. While his iron play has lagged recently, his overall performance and mental approach make him a force to be reckoned with.
- Rory McIlroy (Won 2011): McIlroy has a strong track record at the U.S. Open, having missed the cut only once since 2018. His recent reinvention of his physical and mental game has him poised for another championship. The wide fairways at Shinnecock Hills will suit his game, and his recent driver waywardness might just be a blessing in disguise.
Underdogs to Watch:
- Xander Schauffele (T3 in 2019): Schauffele's consistency in U.S. Open golf is remarkable. With two major wins and a top-10 finish at both the Masters and PGA Championship, he's a player to watch. His game is well-suited for the test, and his recent form is impressive.
Aaron Rai (T19 in 2024): Rai's surprise victory at the PGA Championship was a heartwarming story. His game isn't going to get him into trouble, and his ability to perform under pressure makes him a dark horse contender.
Jon Rahm (Won 2021): Rahm's competitive spirit and recent iron play make him a strong contender. His runner-up finish at Valderrama and top-10 finish at Shinnecock Hills last season are encouraging signs.
Rising Stars:
- Chris Gotterup (T23 in 2025): Gotterup's creativity and shot-making skills, coupled with his recent top-25 finishes, make him an intriguing prospect. His ability to contend on difficult courses is a positive sign.
- Wyndham Clark (Won 2023): Clark's recent form, including a win at the Byron Nelson and close calls at major championships, suggests he's on the rise. His tightened swing and confidence make him a player to watch.
Veteran Contenders:
- Patrick Reed (4th in 2018): Reed's experience and short-game wizardry make him a veteran contender. His recent major championships and European summer preparations are a positive sign.
- Justin Rose (Won 2013): Rose's recent top-10 finish at the PGA Championship and his ability to perform under pressure make him a serious contender. His new equipment and form are a welcome sight.
Question Marks:
- Bryson DeChambeau (Won 2020, 2024): DeChambeau's recent struggles, including missing major cuts and LIV Golf success, create skepticism. His U.S. Open performances and expectations are a fascinating narrative.
Sam Burns (T7 in 2025): Burns' recent finishes at the Masters and Memorial, coupled with his Oakmont experience, make him a potential surprise winner.
J.J. Spaun (Won 2025): Spaun's defending champion status and recent tournament wins make him a strong contender. His greens magic will be crucial.
The Dark Horses:
- Tyrrell Hatton (T4 in 2025): Hatton's fiery competitiveness and all-around game make him a dark horse. His recent win and near-misses are a testament to his ability.
Justin Thomas (T8 in 2020): Thomas' recent top-25 finishes and difficult course form are encouraging. His ability to keep the ball in play will be key.
Brooks Koepka (Won 2017, 2018): Koepka's U.S. Open prowess and recent hand injury recovery make him a contender. His ability to perform under pressure is well-documented.
Patrick Cantlay (T3 in 2024): Cantlay's recent iron play and greens accuracy make him a contender. His quiet contention at Pinehurst is a positive sign.
Si Woo Kim (T13 in 2017): Kim's recent podium finishes and iron play make him a dark horse. His putting will be crucial.
Hideki Matsuyama (T2 in 2017): Matsuyama's iron play and hands make him a contender. His recent playoff loss and top-six finishes at major championships are encouraging.
The Underrated:
- Russell Henley (T7 in 2024): Henley's accuracy, precision, and confidence make him an underrated contender. His recent win at Colonial and top-15 finishes are impressive.
Ludvig Åberg (T12 in 2024): Åberg's strokes gained and recent tournament performances make him a player to watch. His patience and talent are notable.
Tommy Fleetwood (2nd in 2018): Fleetwood's recent form and near-misses are a positive sign. His ability to contend on Sunday is a testament to his skills.
Ryan Gerard (T50 in 2025): Gerard's recent form and greens address tweak make him an intriguing dark horse. His old-school golf style adds to the excitement.
Harris English (3rd in 2021): English's recent top-10 finishes and difficulty-beating abilities make him an underrated contender. His approach play and conditions-beating skills are notable.
The 2026 U.S. Open promises to be a thrilling contest, with a mix of favorites, underdogs, and rising stars. As the first round approaches, the stage is set for a memorable championship, with the potential for surprise winners and a true test of golf's elite.
