The USGA has apologized for how unfair the Shinnecock Hills course was in the third round of the U.S. Open.
Only three players shot under par — co-leaders Daniel Berger and Tony Finau with 66s, and Kiradech Aphibarnrat with a 68. Two others were at even par: Gary Woodland and Brian Gay.
Meanwhile, there were eight rounds of 80 or higher, including Rickie Fowler with an 84 and Phil Mickelson at 81.
“It was a tale of two golf courses, and no doubt, we would admit, well-executed shots were not only not regarded, but were punished,” said Mike Davis, the USGA’s executive director and the man in charge of course setup. “We would say that it was a very tough test, and really too tough this afternoon.”
Davis promised to slow down the course for Sunday’s final round.
“You saw some low scores this morning; those hole locations actually work,” Davis said. “Having said that, this golf course will get slowed down tonight. There will be water applied to it.”
That process began on some holes even before Dustin Johnson bogeyed No. 18 to fall into a four-way tie for the lead at 3 over par.
