There’s something uniquely compelling about elite athletes stepping outside their original sport to chase greatness somewhere else. That’s exactly what’s happening as a group of high-profile former pros attempt to qualify for the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club—one of the most historic and punishing venues in golf.
This isn’t a celebrity exhibition. This is the real thing. Local qualifiers. Sectionals. One shot at earning a place in one of golf’s toughest major championships.
The Athletes Taking Their Shot
⚾ Aaron Hicks
A former MLB outfielder known for his time with the New York Yankees, Hicks has long been respected for his athleticism and discipline. Golf has been a serious offseason pursuit, and now he’s testing himself in a field where precision replaces power.
🏈 Tony Romo
Few crossover athletes have embraced golf like Romo. The former Dallas Cowboys QB has competed in multiple pro-am events and even attempted U.S. Open qualifying before. His low handicap and competitive fire make him one of the most legitimate contenders in this group.
🏒 J.T. Miller
A captain in the National Hockey League, Miller represents a newer generation of athletes crossing into golf. Hockey players are known for their hand-eye coordination—and Miller is looking to translate that into a serious qualifying run.
🎾 Mardy Fish
Arguably the most accomplished golfer of the group, Fish is a six-time ATP Tour winner who has transitioned into elite amateur golf. He has played in multiple high-level tournaments and is widely respected in golf circles for his game.
🏈 Danny Woodhead
A former standout with the New England Patriots and San Diego Chargers, Woodhead has quietly built a strong golf resume post-retirement. His work ethic and competitiveness translate well to the grind of qualifying.
⚾ Tyler Clippard
A World Series champion and All-Star pitcher, Clippard brings mental toughness to the course. Golf demands a similar mindset to pitching—focus, rhythm, and execution under pressure.
🏈 Drew Olson
Known for his college career at UCLA and time in the NFL, Olson has been active in competitive amateur golf and continues to sharpen his skills against elite fields.
⚾ Shigetoshi Hasegawa
A veteran of MLB with a standout career for the Seattle Mariners, Hasegawa has developed into a serious amateur golfer, particularly respected in international amateur circles.
🏒 Garrett Rank
Perhaps the most intriguing story, Rank isn’t just dabbling—he’s already played in multiple U.S. Opens. A full-time NHL referee, Rank has consistently proven he can compete at golf’s highest amateur levels.
The Course: A True Test of Golf
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club isn’t just historic—it’s brutal.
- Founded in 1891, it’s one of the oldest golf clubs in the U.S.
- Hosted multiple U.S. Opens, including 2018, where winning scores barely stayed under par
- Known for firm fairways, punishing rough, and unpredictable coastal winds
This is not a place where talent alone survives. It demands discipline, creativity, and mental endurance.
How U.S. Open Qualifying Works
The path to the U.S. Open Championship is famously democratic:
- Local Qualifying
- Open to professionals and amateurs with a low handicap
- Thousands compete across the country
- Final (Sectional) Qualifying
- Often called “Golf’s Longest Day”
- 36 holes in one day
- Only a handful advance
These former athletes must survive both stages against seasoned professionals and elite amateurs.
2026 U.S. Open: Dates, Location & Schedule
- Dates: June 18–21, 2026
- Location: Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
- Practice Rounds: June 15–17
- Competition Rounds:
- Round 1: Thursday
- Round 2: Friday
- Round 3: Saturday
- Final Round: Sunday
Where to Watch
Coverage will be broadcast across major networks:
- NBC Sports – Primary weekend coverage
- USA Network – Early round coverage
- USGA digital platforms – Featured groups, live streaming, and real-time scoring
Expect wall-to-wall coverage, especially with compelling storylines like these crossover athletes attempting to qualify.
Tickets & Attendance
Fans can attend the 2026 U.S. Open by securing tickets directly through the official USGA channels:
- Official site: United States Golf Association
- Ticket options include:
- Practice round access
- Single-day grounds passes
- Premium hospitality experiences
Demand will be extremely high given the prestige of Shinnecock, so early registration and ticket lotteries are recommended.
Why This Story Matters
This isn’t just about golf. It’s about competitive identity.
These athletes have already reached the top of their original sports. Now, they’re willingly stepping into a completely different arena—one where reputation means nothing and every shot is earned.
Some won’t make it. In fact, most won’t.
But that’s exactly what makes it compelling.
Because in golf—especially at the U.S. Open—there are no shortcuts, no reputations, and no guarantees.
Only the grind.
Final Take
The 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is shaping up to be more than just another major. It’s becoming a stage for one of the most fascinating crossover stories in sports.
From the NFL to MLB, from the NHL to ATP courts—these athletes are chasing something rare:
A second chapter of greatness.
And this time, it’s earned one swing at a time.
