The 2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York, promises one of the sternest tests in major championship golf. The 126th edition unfolds from Thursday, June 18, through Sunday, June 21, on this historic links-style layout that has hosted the national championship across three different centuries.
Stretching to around 7440 yards as a par 70, the course features wide fairways that play narrower in the coastal winds. Additionally, there is generous bunkering and crowned, sloping greens that demand precision and creativity—especially under firm conditions and with Stimpmeter readings targeted at 11.5 to 12.
Past Opens here have produced low winning scores when calm, but punishing ones when the wind blows. Thus, making it a true 2026 US Open Odds test of ball striking, short game, and mental resilience. The USGA setup aims to identify the best player rather than trick anyone
Scottie Scheffler enters as the clear favorite at around plus 550. Caused by his world number one status, recent major pedigree, and quest to complete the career Grand Slam. And then there is the intangible of his 30th birthday falling on the final round Sunday.
Second, Rory McIlroy sits next at around plus 1000, fresh off his Masters win and still chasing that elusive US Open title. While Jon Rahm, Cameron Young, Bryson DeChambeau, Xander Schauffele, and others like Matt Fitzpatrick and Brooks Koepka, who won here in 2018, round out the top contenders. It is a stacked 156-player field that includes defending champion JJ Spaun.
2026 US Open GOLF Betting Information
| When: | Thursday, June 18, through Sunday, June 21, 2026. |
|---|---|
| Where: | Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York. |
| Defending Champion: | JJ Spaun. |
| TV Coverage: | Peacock and the USGA App |
The 2026 US Open Golf Championship takes place from Thursday, June 18, through Sunday, June 21, at the historic Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York. Specifically, this marks the sixth time this classic venue has hosted the national championship.
NBC Sports leads the media coverage in the United States, delivering extensive live broadcasts across NBC, USA Network, Golf Channel, and Peacock. Correlate that there will be over 200 hours of programming. Including featured groups, Live From studio shows, and full-round sports betting coverage, building toward the dramatic final round on Sunday. Streaming options through Peacock and the USGA app provide additional access
2026 US Open Top Contenders
Scottie Scheffler is ideally suited for this demanding layout where precision off the tee and approach play will dominate. To show, his ability to avoid big mistakes and grind out scores even when the wind picks up gives him the edge.
Still hunting that first US Open title after years of close calls is Rory McIlroy. He brings prodigious power and creativity shining on wider fairways. Yet he needs the putter to cooperate on Shinnecock’s tricky greens to contend seriously.
Jon Rahm is a past US Open winner with the strength and short game to handle the coastal winds and firm conditions. His form has been a bit streaky since joining LIV.
Cameron Young represents strong value as one of the hottest players in recent months. Consider that he is playing in his home state with elite ball striking that fits Shinnecock perfectly. He brings a game built for tough setups.
Xander Schauffele offers reliability and a stellar major record. Especially at the US Open, where his consistency and clutch play could see him contend deep into the weekend if he gets off to a solid start.
Many bargain hunters like Tommy Fleetwood and Ludvig. Fleetwood’s links-style experience and Aberg’s all-around talent give them legitimate shots. Especially if the course plays firm and fast, rewarding accurate iron play
Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka bring past success at Shinnecock. Specifically, DeChambeau’s unique power game and Koepka’s proven major pedigree as the 2018 winner here make them dangerous when the pressure rises.
Also factoring is Matt Fitzpatrick, with his ball striking and previous major success on tough tracks.
2026 US Open SBG Free Picks
To conclude, Scottie Scheffler stands out as the strongest outright bet to beat the US Open betting odds. His ability to grind through tough conditions and recent major pedigree make him the clear player to beat. And then for better value, Cameron Young looks like one of the sharpest plays in the field. He is a red-hot ball striker playing in his home state with a game perfectly tailored to tough setups like Shinnecock.
2026 US Open SBG Best Bets: Scottie Scheffler and Cameron Young.