New York Gives U.S. Open At Winged Foot Its Blessing Without Fans But With "Rigorous Protocols" In Place

While the lack of U.S. Open fans garnered most headlines, the status of New York’s quarantine rules and those attempting to make the September event a go has been addressed. From Brian Wacker’s GolfDigest.com report:

Earlier this month, the New York Department of Health issued guidance that eases the travel order for all professional sports teams, allowing players, coaches and team staff to be exempt from quarantine to play games, practice or provide support.

That exemption also extends to competitors in the U.S. Open. And not just to players and caddies but to everyone on site at Winged Foot, including staff, officials and media.

“Every person on site will be considered essential personnel,” USGA CEO Mike Davis told Golf Digest. “Everyone will be tested before they come on site.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo made the news part of his daily update and gives the impression of potentially tougher protocols than essentials have been facing at PGA Tour events.

The USGA will put protocols in place to protect players and staff, including rigorous protocols for testing, cleaning, use of face coverings and social distancing. 

"The 2020 U.S. Open will take place at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck this September. The national championship is a great event. It will be held without fans and the organizers are working with the State Department of Health to ensure everyone's safety," Governor Cuomo said. "Today's numbers show continued progress - and our goal now is to protect that progress as states across the nation see their infections rates surge. We cannot go backwards, so remember to wear your mask and stay New York Tough."

New York’s restrictions on visitors continue to expand, but will now be irrelevant to essential U.S. Open visitors.