US Open 2026: Wyndham Clark Leads After Chaotic First Round

Wyndham Clark surged ahead in the 2026 US Open, capitalizing on calmer afternoon conditions to build a significant lead, while Rory McIlroy's hopes were dampened by a tumultuous back nine.

The 2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y., witnessed a dramatic shift in fortunes as the day progressed. The tournament began under a shroud of fog, halting play for two hours, but the real drama unfolded as the wind picked up and the leaderboard fluctuated wildly.

Wyndham Clark, the 2026 US Open champion, seized the opportunity presented by the calmer afternoon conditions to take a commanding lead. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy, the world number two and Masters champion, found himself struggling on the back nine, ultimately finishing one over par for the round.

Clark’s Commanding Performance

Clark’s round was a masterclass in capitalizing on favorable conditions. He started his round with birdies on the 10th and 11th holes, setting the tone for his impressive performance. His approach into the par-five fifth hole was particularly stunning, setting up a close-range eagle that further extended his lead.

By the time play was suspended due to darkness, Clark was six under for his round with two holes remaining. He had the chance to make major history when play resumes, needing to birdie one of his remaining two holes to post an opening-round 63 and equal the course record.

McIlroy’s Tumultuous Round

McIlroy’s round started promisingly, with seven pars and two birdies on the front nine to turn in 33. However, his back nine was a different story. In the strengthening wind, he struggled with distance control, going over the back of the green at the 10th, 11th, and 12th holes, resulting in bogeys each time.

He appeared to have recovered with back-to-back birdies at the 13th and 14th holes, but his chip back at the 15th failed to bite, rolling into a bunker. From there, he made the first double bogey of the tournament from his group, playing alongside Ryder Cup teammates Tommy Fleetwood and Ludvig Aberg.

McIlroy’s final score of one over par left him seven shots behind Clark but still in contention, given the difficulty of Shinnecock Hills. His front nine was calm by comparison, but coming home in 38 for a one-over 71 was not part of his plan.

The Impact of Weather and Course Conditions

The weather played a significant role in the day’s events. The heavy fog that delayed the start of play gave way to strengthening winds that tormented the players. However, the wind slowed in the afternoon, leaving the course more susceptible to scoring.

Dustin Johnson birdied four straight holes, Matt Fitzpatrick went from two over to two under in five holes, and Clark raced out to a sizable lead. The course, known for its challenges, held up well despite the soft greens, with most of the pins sitting in the middle of the greens.

As the week progresses, the conditions are expected to toughen up, adding another layer of complexity to the tournament. The players will need to adapt to the changing conditions if they hope to challenge Clark’s lead.