The excitement of the World Cup has permeated nearly every corner of the United States, even reaching the serene east end of Long Island, where the prestigious U.S. Open is unfolding at Shinnecock Hills.
As top golfers from around the globe vie for one of the sport’s coveted major titles, the World Cup serves as a captivating diversion.
This week, Rory McIlroy expressed his delight that Scotland is participating in the World Cup this year, noting that the tournament has played a crucial role in helping him maintain focus as he prepares for the U.S. Open.
“It’s great to have it on, especially this week. It’s a wonderful way to unwind. After a day on the golf course, it’s refreshing to switch on the football and take a break from thinking about golf,” McIlroy remarked.
Even World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler has been catching matches, despite admitting that he isn’t the biggest soccer enthusiast.
“I pretty much save all my sports for football. I actually really enjoyed watching the NBA Finals the last few weeks, as well,” he said, referencing the 4-1 series victory that handed the Knicks their first NBA title in 53 years. “I think, if you’re a fan of sport, which I am, you pretty much have to get into the World Cup. I’ve been able to watch a bit. Not as much as I’d hoped to, but I’m definitely paying attention.”
McIlroy is seeking his first U.S. Open title since he won back in 2011, while Scheffler will look to complete the career Grand Slam by winning the lone major he has yet to be victorious at.
The U.S. Women’s Open at Shinnecock Hills may still be 10 years away, but the United States Golf Association expressed excitement over where the women’s game is headed over the next decade before it arrives on the east end of Long Island.
The exciting tournament at historic Riviera Country Club was punctuated by star Nelly Korda coming away with a one-stroke victory over Charley Hull and Gaby Lopez.
“Riviera was a huge stage for the women’s game, and we were super proud of it,” USGA CEO Mike Whan said Wednesday. “It was an amazing experience. If you believe what you saw at Riv makes sense, I can only imagine what the next 10 years is going to be.”
The USGA and R&A announced in a joint statement with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour that they would be taking another look at how they’re approaching upcoming distance rollback measures.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the parties jointly agreed that golf does have a distance issue, “the updated ODS testing approach may not achieve the desired results,” and a “collective willingness to reconsider alternative approaches” to the issue.