US Open Golf 2026 Preview: Best Bets, Odds & Shinnecock Hills Guide

The third men’s major of the season is almost here, and golf fans around South Africa will be eagerly following the action as the 126th US Open heads to the legendary Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York.

This is widely regarded as one of the toughest tests in golf. Shinnecock Hills has a reputation for punishing wayward drives, demanding creativity around the greens, and allowing the Atlantic winds to become a major factor. With the tournament running from 18-21 June 2026, the world’s best players will once again battle for one of golf’s most prestigious trophies.

This year’s championship carries extra interest. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler arrives with an opportunity to complete the career Grand Slam, while Rory McIlroy seeks another major title after his Masters triumph earlier this season.

Shinnecock Hills is one of America’s most historic golf venues and has hosted multiple US Opens dating back more than a century. The 2026 edition will be particularly interesting because tournament organisers have restored much of architect William Flynn’s original vision, featuring wider fairways but retaining the course’s natural defence: wind and incredibly challenging greens.

Expect:

• Fast-running fairways.
• Severe green complexes.
• Coastal winds influencing club selection.
• Premium value on approach play and scrambling.

The winning score could again hover around par if the weather becomes difficult.

Current outright betting markets place the following players among the leading contenders:

• Scottie Scheffler 6.50
• Rory McIlroy 13.00
• Jon Rahm 14.00
• Tommy Fleetwood 21.00
• Ludvig Åberg 23.00
• Xander Schauffele 23.00
• Bryson DeChambeau 26.00

Odds are approximate and may vary between bookmakers. If you’re unsure about how betting odds work, take some time to read our guide explaining betting odds.

Scottie Scheffler: The world No. 1 arrives as a deserved favourite. His elite ball-striking and consistency make him ideally suited to a demanding US Open setup. If he wins, he completes golf’s career Grand Slam.

Rory McIlroy: McIlroy’s Masters victory has reignited his season. His combination of power and experience makes him a major threat, particularly if conditions remain relatively calm.

Jon Rahm: Rahm’s aggressive style and ability to grind out pars on difficult layouts makes him one of the most dangerous contenders in the field.

Ludvig Åberg: One of the most exciting young stars in world golf. Several predictive models rate him as a serious contender despite limited major success so far.

Tommy Fleetwood: Fleetwood’s superb links-style game could prove ideal if the wind becomes a significant factor at Shinnecock Hills.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Tommy Fleetwood Each-Way @ 21.00

Fleetwood’s accuracy, iron play and ability to handle windy conditions make him one of the most attractive value bets in the outright market. Shinnecock Hills rewards patience and strategic golf rather than pure power, which plays directly into his strengths.

If you’re unsure about the betting markets in golf and how they work, take the time to read our article explaining golf betting strategy.

1. Tommy Fleetwood Each-Way @ 21.00

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5

Excellent value on a course that should suit his game perfectly.

2. Scottie Scheffler To Win @ 6.50

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5

The most likely winner based on current form and world ranking.

3. Rory McIlroy Top 10 Finish @ 2.30

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5

Comes into the event with confidence and proven major pedigree.

4. Ludvig Åberg Top 20 Finish @ 2.10

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5

Outstanding recent statistics suggest another strong major showing.

5. Jon Rahm Top European Player @ 5.50

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5

Rahm’s all-round game makes him a major contender every time he tees it up.