European golfers have claimed the season's first two majors, with Rory McIlroy defending his Masters title and Aaron Rai stunning the field at the PGA Championship. This historic sweep marks the first time in the modern era that Europeans have swept the opening majors, setting up an intriguing showdown at Shinnecock Hills.

Matt Fitzpatrick returns as the 2022 US Open champion riding three PGA Tour victories this season, while Jon Rahm brings LIV Golf success and major pedigree. Justin Rose has top-10 finishes in both majors and Tommy Fleetwood owns the course record 63 at Shinnecock. Ludvig Åberg, Robert MacIntyre and Tyrrell Hatton chase their first major titles amid strong European representation.

World No 1 Scottie Scheffler enters as the clear favorite, seeking a career Grand Slam on his 30th birthday. The statistical comparison to Tiger Woods underscores his consistent birdie-making and bogey avoidance, even in a down year by his standards. JJ Spaun defends his title while Brooks Koepka pursues a third US Open crown.

The last four champions emerged from outside the world's top 10, suggesting another unpredictable outcome despite Scheffler's favored status. Strong winds and Shinnecock's brutal reputation favor players who can manage difficult conditions. McIlroy's recent top-20 streak in seven straight US Opens shows his comfort with major championship pressure.