Davis keen for event to return to Merion

Merion’s famed East Course has not staged the US Open since 1981 due to the logistical demands of holding a major championship on a relatively small piece of land, with the practice range on the West Course and the gardens of adjacent houses being used for corporate hospitality.

Despite such issues, Davis said he had “not seen anything to say we would not come back here,” but added: “Personally I’d already like to see us return. I’m not sure Merion wants us to return.”

With the range a long way from the first and 11th tees which will be used in the first two rounds, players will be shuttled between the two locations.

But, although the tournament committee will have some leeway in assessing penalties or disqualification for missing tee times, Davis stressed that responsibility remained with the players.

“We go through this whether it’s at Pebble Beach, Bethpage or wherever,” Davis added. “We have a wonderful transportation system set up. They can get from point A to point B without traffic. That’s not going to be an issue.

“(But) if we erred, then we would make provisions to where the player wouldn’t be penalised.”

Former champion Graeme McDowell is well aware of the problem, saying: “I wouldn’t be the most punctual person in the world, so my caddie is already on my case.

“If you want 50 minutes hitting golf balls, you’re going to have to be getting out of your car literally an hour and 30 minutes before your tee time.”

One area where the USGA will certainly not make any concessions is with regards to preferred lies, even after around six inches of rain fell on the course in the last four days – with more forecast for today.