The US Open is adamant about keeping the current 18-hole play-off format, despite being the only major that does so. USGA Executive Director David Fay, when asked if the format would change anytime soon, said, “We are doggedly determined to go 18 holes.”
One has to question why we need a full 18-hole play-off. Last years battle between Tiger Woods and Rocco Meidate, while fantastic, is a rare occurrence. The extra day also puts a drain on the USGA’s finances. With the extra day, the USGA spent extra money on:
- Another day of buses: $120,000 ($45,000 for smaller buses)
- Security: $30,000
- Parking: $60,000
- Lunches and travel costs (no amount given)
Overall, the costs added up to just over a half a million dollars.
It would seem to me that with that much money being shelled out and the rarity of match-ups like last years, the US Open would follow suit with the other majors and go with a sudden death play-off.
And I’d be all for it.
What do you think? Should the US Open keep the 18-hole format or move to sudden death?

