Phil Mickelson: The condition, I think it's the best U.S. Open setup that I've seen. I think the one area of concern I have is the greens, they're so small and they're so firm that, given that there's not any forecast for rain, I'm certainly concerned that we could have 14 potential 7th holes at Shinnecock, if we're not careful...
In 2000 it was the greatest performance I've ever seen in the game, to shoot 12-under by Tiger, that was the best ball-striking and the best putting tournament that's ever been performed in my opinion. The next was 3-over. And I thought that that was pretty good play and we were only able to shoot 3-over because the first two days we had some moisture, and I don't expect to see moisture. It's not supposed to rain this week, and that's why I'm concerned.
Henrik Stenson: On a lot of these holes, you can hit a shot and be in the rough 5 feet from the green and you'll be lucky to be putting after your next shot.
Steve Stricker: The course is in great shape. But I just think that the greens are such that they're small enough and going to be firm enough where it's going to be difficult to get the ball close to the holes and even though it's short at times, there's still enough good holes out there where you have to pay attention and try not to make mistakes. But I just think the firmness of the greens are going to stop the scoring from being real low.
Ernie Els: (But) the greens are going to be very tricky. And I went out late yesterday evening and hit some chip shots and putts on the greens. There's a huge difference from the morning to late afternoon, when, as you said, when the poa annua really dries up. When you hit the brown patches, the ball really doesn't stop on the green. So it could get a little bit tricky. But it's a great golf course.
