Brooks Koepka has been trending nicely since returning to the PGA Tour, but he is yet to really challenge for a win.
The closest the five-time major winner has come to victory following his PGA Tour return was a top 10 finish at the Cognizant Classic. He has failed to take advantage of playing in events with weaker fields, as he has not been able to string together four low scores.
Koepka’s putting has been a stain on an otherwise brilliant year. If he’d been able to put the ball in the hole at a consistent rate, he’d surely have a win in 2026. That’s why his showing at the Canadian Open has been so promising so far.
Through two rounds, Koepka is fourth in the field in putting as he contends for the win. And there’s another key reason why this showing so far makes him a strong contender to win the US Open again at Shinnecock Hills.
Brooks Koepka’s play at the Canadian Open makes him a threat to win at Shinnecock
TPC Toronto, the host of the Canadian Open, has one real defense, and it’s shown up so far this week. When the wind blows, as it often does at this venue, it can get very difficult for the players to shoot low.
But Koepka has dealt with these blowy conditions beautifully. He shot a 64 in his opening round, then followed up with a 68 in the wind to remain within two shots of the lead. He’s so close to his best golf, as the wind tends to bring out the best in him.
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This is a great sign for Shinnecock. The early weather forecast predicts windy conditions, especially on Friday, with gusts up to 34 mph. Shinnecock is a brutally difficult golf course in the best of conditions, but when the wind blows, it’s near impossible.
But Koepka has already proven that he can master a windy Shinnecock. In 2018 he won his second-straight US Open at this historic venue in one of the most challenging US Opens in history.
He won the event at one over par, keeping himself in contention when the wind howled on Saturday. If the forecast holds, and if this showing in Canada is anything to go by, then Koepka may well be in the mix for his sixth major championship.
Brooks Koepka says how close he is to his best after his second round at the Canadian Open
Koepka has appeared to be in a better place with his game since leaving LIV Golf and has been gradually building toward peak form. His putter has held him back, but Koepka’s ball striking has put him among some of the best in the game of late.
After getting himself into contention in Canada, he said that he feels close to playing his best golf: “I feel really close. The ball striking probably hasn’t been what I would say it’s been all year.
“Driving it as well, maybe not as great this week. The putting has been great. So I’m happy with it, I’m excited, and hopefully it continues this week.”
A win this week would give Koepka an immense boost in confidence, which will be much needed when he tees off at one of the most difficult golf courses on the planet in Shinnecock Hills.
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