Joaquin Niemann's US Open path made more difficult by penalty

Field Level Media|published: Fri 19th June, 10:27 2026

May 16, 2026; Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, USA; Joaquin Niemann putts on the 17th hole during the third round of the PGA Championship golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-Imagn Images

Joaquin Niemann's frustration resulted in a two-stroke penalty for throwing a club during the first round of the U.S. Open in Southampton, N.Y., and he will need to turn in a very low round on Friday if he is to make the cut.

He shot 8-over 78 in the first round.

Niemann's action on the sixth hole at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club was determined to be serious misconduct under Rule 1.2b, according to the USGA. That rule states "players are expected to play in the spirit of the game by acting with integrity, showing consideration to others and taking good care of the course."

The 27-year-old Chilean carded an 11 -- after the penalty -- on the par-4 hole. He sailed two drives out of bounds and then came up short of the green on his approach shot, resulting in him throwing his club.

A two-time winner on the PGA Tour, Niemann moved to LIV Golf in 2022. He's won eight times on that circuit, including a playoff victory over Talor Gooch at LIV Golf Korea last month.

--Field Level Media

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