US Open Tee Times 2026: Featured Groups, Start Times, and What Fans Need to Know
US Open Tee Times 2026: Featured Groups, Start Times, and What Fans Need to Know
The phrase “US Open tee times” is trending across the United States as golf fans prepare for one of the biggest events of the year. The 126th U.S. Open Championship is underway at historic Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, where the world's best golfers are battling one of the toughest tests in the sport.
Adding to the drama, the opening round experienced a weather interruption due to dense fog, briefly delaying play on Thursday morning. Officials suspended action shortly after the first groups began before conditions improved.
Where Is the 2026 U.S. Open Being Played?
The 2026 U.S. Open is being held at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club from June 18-21. The iconic Long Island course is hosting the championship for the sixth time and is widely regarded as one of the most challenging venues in major championship golf. Strong winds, firm fairways, and difficult greens are expected to play a major role throughout the week.
Featured U.S. Open Tee Times for Round 1
Several marquee groups are drawing significant attention from golf fans and analysts:
| Tee Time (ET) | Players |
|---|---|
| 7:52 a.m. | Rory McIlroy, Ludvig Åberg, Tommy Fleetwood |
| 8:14 a.m. | Scottie Scheffler, J.J. Spaun, Mason Howell (a) |
| 1:25 p.m. | Bryson DeChambeau, Viktor Hovland, Matt Fitzpatrick |
| 1:47 p.m. | Justin Thomas, Hideki Matsuyama, Xander Schauffele |
| 2:09 p.m. | Justin Rose, Jordan Spieth, Jon Rahm |
Most Anticipated Groups
Scottie Scheffler's Group
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler begins his quest for a career Grand Slam alongside defending U.S. Open champion J. J. Spaun and amateur standout Mason Howell. Their Thursday morning tee time has become one of the most discussed pairings of the tournament.
Rory McIlroy's Group
Fresh off another stellar major season, Rory McIlroy is paired with rising star Ludvig Åberg and fellow European standout Tommy Fleetwood. This trio could produce some of the most entertaining golf of the opening rounds.
Rahm, Spieth, and Rose
Another fan-favorite group features major champions Jon Rahm, Jordan Spieth, and Justin Rose. Their afternoon start is expected to attract massive galleries and television audiences.
Why Tee Times Matter at Shinnecock Hills
At most tournaments, tee times are important. At Shinnecock Hills, they can be crucial.
Morning players may encounter calmer conditions and softer greens, while afternoon groups could face stronger winds and firmer surfaces. Weather forecasts suggest changing conditions throughout the day, potentially creating a significant advantage for one wave over the other.
Historically, Shinnecock has rewarded patience more than aggressive play. Players and analysts alike expect pars to be extremely valuable this week.
How to Watch the U.S. Open
American viewers can follow the championship on NBC, USA Network, and Peacock. Extensive live coverage, featured groups, and streaming options are available throughout all four rounds. For official tee times, live scoring, and tournament updates, visit the official U.S. Open website:
Key Storylines Entering Round 1
Scottie Scheffler is attempting to complete the career Grand Slam. )
Rory McIlroy enters as one of the hottest players in golf.
Bryson DeChambeau seeks another U.S. Open title.
Defending champion J.J. Spaun returns looking to repeat.
Shinnecock Hills is expected to be one of the toughest major championship setups in recent years.
Bottom Line
The 2026 U.S. Open has already delivered drama before the first round is fully underway. Between weather delays, a brutal course setup, and star-studded pairings featuring Scheffler, McIlroy, Rahm, Spieth, and DeChambeau, golf fans have plenty of reasons to keep a close eye on the latest U.S. Open tee times. With Shinnecock Hills demanding near-perfect execution, every starting time could play a role in determining who lifts the trophy on Sunday.
