U.S. Open 2026: Harry Higgs forgot his pants. He almost quit golf 10 days ago. He’s contending at Shinnecock | Golf News and Tour Information
Harry Higgs is currently in the top 10 at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills after shooting a 68 on Friday. The 34-year-old journeyman, ranked 354th in the world, entered the tournament as an alternate and sits six shots back entering Saturday’s round, according to tournament reports.
Higgs provided a highlight of the tournament on the 11th green, where he used a putter from 30 yards out to send his ball up a mowed slope and into the cup for a 2. He followed a one-over 71 on Thursday with three birdies on Friday’s front nine to move into contention.
How did Harry Higgs qualify for the U.S. Open?
Higgs secured his place at Shinnecock Hills as an alternate after qualifying in Gastonia, N.C. He missed qualifying outright by a single shot, but only after nearly quitting the sport entirely during the event.
Higgs said he played poorly during the front nine of the 36-hole qualifier and used his phone to book a flight home. He contemplated walking off after the ninth hole and leaving professional golf, stating at the time that he could “figure out something else” and spend more time with his family.
Instead, Higgs continued playing and recorded a “boatload of birdies” over the remaining 27 holes. This performance earned him the alternate spot that allowed him to compete this week.
What is the professional background of Harry Higgs?
Known by the nickname “Big Rig,” Higgs has faced significant professional volatility. He lost his tour card in two of the last three seasons and missed the cut in all six of his PGA Tour starts this year.
His current standing reflects these struggles, as he remains outside the top 100 on the Korn Ferry Tour. Before the U.S. Open, he was ranked 354th in the World Ranking, placing him slightly ahead of Adam Wallin on the Hotel Planner Tour.
Why has Higgs’ mental approach changed?
Higgs attributed his current success to a decision to stop “spiraling inward” when mistakes occur. He stated that he previously let bad swings and bad thoughts cause his rounds to collapse.
The golfer now focuses on a conviction that happiness must precede good results. “I’m doing the stuff I know has helped me play the best golf of my career, so why not believe in myself?” Higgs said.
He credited his Friday performance to staying “cool” during bad shots and maintaining a confident posture on the course, regardless of his actual standing among the elite players.
What happens next for Higgs at Shinnecock Hills?
Higgs will tee off late Saturday with a chance to remain in contention for a major championship. He acknowledged that maintaining this level of play will be “harder” as the weekend progresses.
If he continues to shoot low scores, he could potentially move closer to the lead on Sunday. He noted that top players consistently make the choice to believe they are the best, a mindset he is now attempting to adopt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Harry Higgs’ score on Friday?
He shot a 68, which helped him move into the top 10.
What is Harry Higgs’ current world ranking?
He entered the week ranked 354th in the World Ranking.
Where did Harry Higgs almost quit golf?
He nearly quit during the qualifier in Gastonia, N.C., after playing poorly on the front nine.
Do you think a strong U.S. Open finish can permanently change the trajectory of a journeyman’s career?