Tough U.S. Open course set-up backfires for officials

Jun 16, 2018; Southampton, NY, USA; Dustin Johnson tees off the ninth hole during the third round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Shinnecock Hills GC - Shinnecock Hills Golf C. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. (Reuters) - The U.S. Golf Association (USGA) acknowledged that its latest gamble of a tough course set-up backfired, claiming that unexpectedly strong afternoon winds were responsible for the third round carnage at the U.S. Open on Saturday.

The USGA tucked several hole locations near the edges of the crowned greens at Shinnecock Hills, and then watched some extraordinary scenes unfold as several players putted their balls off the 15th green.