U.S. Open Injury Report: Brooks Koepka Cleared for Shinnecock Return as Stars Battle Back to Health

The grueling nature of professional golf is taking center stage at the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, but the prevailing headline is a story of medical resilience. Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka has officially been cleared to compete, shaking off a frightening nerve injury that forced an abrupt withdrawal just days prior.[1][2]

Koepka's return is a massive boost for the tournament field and a testament to modern sports therapy. During the RBC Canadian Open last weekend, he experienced sudden numbness and weakness in the ring and pinky fingers of his left hand, leaving him unable to properly grip the club.[1][3]

The sudden loss of sensation forced Koepka to withdraw before Sunday's final round at TPC Toronto, casting serious doubt on his availability for the season's third major.[1][5]

However, rapid medical intervention and a series of negative neck scans provided a wave of relief for the 36-year-old. Koepka confirmed that the issue was an ulnar nerve flare-up, and while his grip strength isn't completely back to normal, the pain has entirely subsided.[2][4]

"There's absolutely no pain, which is kind of the weirdest part of this whole thing," Koepka explained, noting that the sensation felt akin to hitting a funny bone. He completed a nine-hole practice round at Shinnecock and declared his ball-striking to be "even better than what it's been."[2][3]

Koepka isn't the only major champion successfully navigating the physical toll of the tour this week. Collin Morikawa arrived at the U.S. Open continuing his own comeback trail from a lingering back injury that first flared up at the Players Championship in March.[6]

Morikawa has been steadily building trust in his body, managing his schedule carefully to ensure he peaks for the majors. He recently noted that he is taking all necessary steps to prevent further trauma, emphasizing the mental hurdle of trusting his back during high-torque swings.[6]

While Koepka and Morikawa are successfully managing their returns, the unforgiving Shinnecock layout has unfortunately claimed casualties, underscoring the physical stakes. Jason Day was forced to withdraw during Thursday's opening round after aggravating a chronic back issue, ending his tournament after just 10 holes.[7]

Day's early exit highlights the razor-thin margin between competing at the highest level and succumbing to the physical demands of the modern golf swing. Similarly, rising star Jake Knapp was forced to miss recent signature events due to a persistent thumb and wrist injury.[7][8]

Yet, the overarching narrative at Shinnecock remains one of recovery and determination. Koepka's presence at the venue where he secured his 2018 U.S. Open victory adds a layer of dramatic flair and optimism to the weekend.[2][5]

As the tournament progresses, the focus shifts from the medical tent back to the fairways. For players managing the delicate balance of rehab and elite competition, simply teeing it up at one of golf's most demanding tests is a victory in itself.[5]

With Koepka expressing confidence in his putting and ball-striking, and Morikawa finding his rhythm, the 126th U.S. Open is poised to showcase not just technical brilliance, but the sheer physical endurance required to hoist the trophy.[2][6]