Former US Open champion Graeme McDowell has secured one of nine final qualification spots for this year's tournament at Shinnecock Hills. The Northern Irish golfer impressed at a 36-hole qualifier in Dallas, firing two rounds of 69 to claim his spot. McDowell's return to the major championship stage comes after a period away, with this being his first US Open appearance since his exemption from winning the event ended in 2020.

The 46-year-old's qualification adds intrigue given his recent career decisions. McDowell joined the breakaway LIV Golf tour in 2022 but is now considering a return to the DP World Tour, with the Irish Open and Ryder Cup on his radar. His successful qualification comes as Northern Ireland's Tom McKibbin withdrew from the Dallas tournament, while Sergio Garcia missed out by two strokes in a competitive field vying for limited spots.

The US Open at Shinnecock Hills on Long Island, New York, represents a significant stage for McDowell to showcase his competitive form. The tournament, scheduled for 18-21 June, will be closely watched to see if the former champion can recapture his past success against a strong field. McDowell's qualification provides a storyline to follow as the tournament approaches, particularly with his possible shift back toward traditional tour events.