The US Open golf tournament is being held at Shinnecock Hills in New York, one of America’s toughest courses. Golfers are wondering what score will indicate a tough test.

Historical Context

In 1960, Arnold Palmer won the US Open at Cherry Hills with a score of 280. However, the standard of play has improved significantly since then, with players now better equipped with technology and physical training.

Tom Kite, a former US Open champion, believes that if the best players in the world cannot shoot under par, the course is too difficult. Retief Goosen won the 2004 US Open at Shinnecock Hills with a score of 276.

Modern Expectations

Today, golfers expect to break par, even at a US Open. Adam Scott believes that a score of 5 to 10 under par is a good test of golf at the highest level. Curtis Strange, a two-time US Open champion, agrees that the best players should break par.

Geoff Ogilvy, who won the 2006 US Open at Winged Foot, believes that separating the field is a good test, rather than focusing on the score relative to par. The USGA is being cautious in setting up the course, keeping the greens hydrated to account for strong wind.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.