USGA CEO Expects Tiger Woods to Skip 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills

Fans hoping Tiger Woods might compete in the U.S. Open on Father's Day weekend in late June have little reason for optimism after recent remarks from USGA CEO Mike Whan.

The 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills in New York starts June 18. Whan does not expect Woods in the field.

“I’d be super surprised,” Whan told Sports Illustrated when asked if he anticipated the 15-time major champion playing in the U.S. Open. “It would be wonderful for the event, and if he was ready, it would be wonderful for him.

“Obviously, what he’s going through is much bigger than golf. He’s proven before that when he puts his mind to something, he’s going to be great at it. I’m sure he has a lot of years to play USGA championships. I don’t think he’s going to play in any 2026 USGA championship. If he ends up playing in USGA championships, great. But when I think of Tiger, my friend, that’s not really what’s important to me right now.”

Whan's comment covers all 2026 USGA championships. It applies as Woods turns 50 this year and becomes eligible for the U.S. Senior Open, scheduled for the first weekend in July.

Whan's assessment aligns with expectations, but it solidifies Woods' likely absence from the U.S. Open.

Woods faced arrest in March for driving under the influence with property damage and refusing a blood alcohol level test after a rollover crash on Jupiter Island, Florida. Days later, he issued a statement saying he would step away for a period to seek treatment and focus on his health.

Officers at the scene found two white pills in Woods' pocket, later identified as hydrocodone. After booking at Martin County Jail, he took a breathalyzer test that registered 0.00 on both samples.

Woods, who faced a DUI arrest in 2017 as well, received permission to leave the United States for treatment.

The golfer's most recent U.S. Open appearance came in 2024. His last made cut at the major dates to 2019.