"I think it's the best U.S. Open setup that I've seen," said Phil Mickelson, who had a tee time later Thursday morning to start his quest for the second leg of the 2010 Grand Slam. "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 seventh holes at Shinnecock if we're not careful."
U.S. Open begins under clearing skies →
"There's no way under par is going to win here, I don't believe," Mickelson said. "I think over par will win. Because of that, I'm right there. But I need to play well. I need to putt well, score well. I've just got to get sharp on the greens."