ERIN, Wis. – Erin Hills made its debut as a U.S. Open course Thursday with a most gracious welcome for Rickie Fowler, who matched the record to par in the opening round with a 7-under 65 on the longest course in major championship history.
Fowler had a one-shot lead over Paul Casey and Xander Schauffele. And they plenty of company.
The low scoring suggested the 11-year-old course was a cream puff, hardly the USGA's idea of the ultimate test in golf.
Just don't mention that to some of the best players in the world.