Distance, LIV and anchor sites: Here are 5 takeaways from the USGA press conference at The Country Club

The R&A has a rota of golf courses that it uses to host the British Open that includes St. Andrews, Carnoustie, Royal Birkdale and others. Additions to the rota are rare, but sometimes a course is added, like Royal Portrush, which returned to the rota in 2019 and is set to host again in 2025.

Recently, the USGA has announced several courses that will be hosting national championships well into the future, like Pinehurst No. 2 (2024, 2029, 2035, 2041 and 2047), Oakmont (2025, 2033, 2042 and 2049) and Pebble Beach (2027, 2032, 2037 and 2044). It has caused many people to wonder if a rota is being created.

“Anchor sites is not the beginning of the USGA Rota,” Whan said. “Anchor sites are about making investments long-term into making greater championships and knowing that those will be the place.”

He also cited the fact that the announced anchor sites are not only hosting U.S. Opens, but also other USGA events. For instance, Pebble Beach will be hosting the U.S. Women’s Open in 2023, then again in 2035, 2040 and 2048. Bandon Dunes is scheduled to host 3 USGA amateur championships over 23 years.

“These are going to be partners of ours, long term.”