US Open to be pushed back to August or September

The US Open at Winged Foot is likely to be pushed back to August or September due to the coronavirus pandemic, according to a report in the Westchester Journal News.

An official announcement is expected in the next two weeks.

"We are working collaboratively with other golf organizations to determine how to proceed with the 2020 calendar of events," said USGA senior director of championship communications, Beth Major.

"We’re all certainly looking forward to returning to golf, but only when it has been determined safe to do so. The top priority for each of us remains the safety and well-being with everyone involved with our championships and tournaments."

The US Open was initially scheduled to take place from June 18 to 21, but with the coronavirus outbreak worsening all the time around the world, there is little to no chance of it taking place then. 

Winged Foot was shut down on Sunday evening when Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s executive order to close non-essential businesses went into effect, and all construction in advance of the US Open came to a halt a week ago. 

Should the US Open eventually be cancelled, it would be the first time that has happened since 1945 due to World War II.

"There are multiple variables that we need to consider, including the CDC and local guidelines," said USGA chief brand officer Craig Annis.

"We are continuing to monitor the situation and making relevant contingency plans. We simply did not want to put anyone at risk.

"While construction onsite at Winged Foot has stopped for now, we are continuing to hold the dates for the U.S. Open in June and will monitor all available guidance and regulations from the CDC, WHO and other federal, state and local authorities to do what is in the best interests of the community."

The Masters and US PGA Championship have already been postponed to later in the season.