This Day in U.S. Open Golf History: June 16

The U.S. Open is once again being held in New York state this week. On this date in 1974 the notorious U.S. Open at Winged Foot in Westchester County, called a “massacre” because of the 7-over-par winning score, came to a merciful halt with Hale Irwin winning his first of three U.S. Opens by two shots over Forrest Fezler. The 36-hole cut came at 13 over par. Also, every major there are several players among those who are considered “the best player to not win a major” and that will happen this week at Shinnecock Hills. A player who went down in history as one of the greatest to never win a major, Harry Cooper, was involved in today’s U.S. Open moment. He was in good shape to win the 1927 championship at Oakmont but shot 77 in the final round on June 16 and then lost the next day to Tommy Armour, 76-79, in a playoff.