The opening round of the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills saw Wyndham Clark take a significant lead before fading light halted play. Clark, the 2023 champion, delivered a remarkable performance, finishing at six under par through 16 holes. His late surge, featuring consecutive birdies and an eagle, allowed him to pull four shots clear of the competition, exploiting the calmer conditions of the evening. Meanwhile, Sam Stevens completed his round at two under par, while several others were still on the course when play was stopped.
The day was marked by a significant delay caused by dense morning fog, which pushed the schedule back by over two hours. This disruption left many players unable to complete their rounds on the first day. Despite the challenging weather, Clark’s impressive finish positioned him as a dominant force early in the tournament.
Rory McIlroy remained in the hunt after shooting a one-under 69. The Masters champion had briefly led the field but dropped back due to late bogeys, though he stayed within reach of the leaders heading into the second round. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler faced difficulties but managed to post a two-over 72 after overcoming a shaky start, keeping him within striking distance.
Tournament officials took an unusual step by watering the greens to counter the strong winds forecast for the coming days, aiming to ensure fair conditions for all competitors. With the first round still incomplete for many players, Clark is set to resume his round on Friday, well-positioned to pursue a second U.S. Open title.