Just days before the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, three-time major champion Jordan Spieth was involved in a frightening near-miss during a practice round.
According to reports and video shared online, Spieth hit a wedge shot after being told the green was clear. Moments later, he realized a person had walked into the landing area of the shot. As the ball flew toward the unsuspecting individual, Spieth reacted immediately, alarmed at how close the ball came to striking the person in the head. Fortunately, nobody was injured.
His longtime caddie, Michael Greller, reportedly noted that the individual had unknowingly moved into the shot’s path after Spieth had already been given the all-clear to play. Spieth later acknowledged just how narrowly a serious accident had been avoided.
The incident quickly spread across social media, with fans reacting with a mixture of humor and concern. One clip circulating online captured Spieth saying words to the effect of, “I almost smoked him in the head,” reflecting his shock at the close call.
The scare comes as Spieth prepares for another U.S. Open appearance. The 2015 U.S. Open champion is part of a high-profile grouping alongside Jon Rahm and Justin Rose at Shinnecock Hills.
While no harm was done, the moment served as a reminder of how dangerous a golf ball can be at professional speeds. Spectator safety is always a concern at major championships, and even practice rounds can produce unexpected situations when players and fans share the course.
The 2026 U.S. Open begins June 18 at Shinnecock Hills, a venue widely regarded as one of the toughest tests in golf due to its winds, firm conditions, and demanding layout.