Because of the large amount of applications, the USGA saw a variety of golfers. Most hail from all 50 states, but 752 applicants are from foreign countries. Also, nine of the applicants are previous U.S. Open Champions looking to go for a second win. The amateur golfers better bring their best game because 65 professional golfers will be joining the tournament.
To wean down the number of applicants, there is a qualification process that includes two rounds of golf play. The first qualifying round, which will occur May 6-19, is a play of 18 holes. Players who golf a specific qualifying score will move on to the next round. The second round, called the sectional qualifier, is a play of 36 holes to a minimum score.
After these qualifying trials, the remaining golfers will continue on to the U.S. Open Championship. The tournament will be hosted on June 16-19.