"Will fans attend the U.S. Open at Torrey Pines in person?"

The San Diego Union Tribune’s David Garrick notes the incredible economic impact made by the 2008 U.S. Open and considers if next June’s event will have fans.

As two vaccines now get distributed, I was surprised no mention was made of what role that might play in who can attend (the story was filed 8 days ago).

Sink, the USGA’s senior director for the U.S. Open, said the organization is hopeful they can go with the scenario where there are fans and hospitality tents and all the other hoopla that was here in 2008.

But they have created four other scenarios.

One includes no fans at all, just essential personnel, TV crews and a bare bones team of volunteers. That was the approach in September when the U.S. Open was played just north of New York City.

Another scenario would allow some limited guests, but no general admissions fans.

A third option would allow 25 percent capacity, a fourth would allow 50 percent capacity, and the fifth would be a normal U.S. Open with all the bells and whistles.

It feels like major sports leagues and live music promoters are all waiting to see who might make the first move to throw out the idea of a “vaccinated-only” clause for attendance.