The second major of the year always throws up plenty of unmissable drama, but if you need more convincing as to why you should tune in, we’ve got five fantastic reasons…

1. It’s the toughest major to win

Take a look at the winning scores at each of the majors over the past four years and it’s evident you need some serious sporting mettle to win the US Open. The last four best scores at the US Masters add up to 47 under par; at the Open Championship it’s 64 under; and at the PGA Championship it’s 58 under. The last four combined winning scores at the US Open, on the other hand, equal just 34 under par.

2. Watch out for the big hitters

The course at Shinnecock Hills has been extended by nearly 500 yards for the 2018 US Open, which means that it could be one of golf’s power players who comes to the fore this year. And, let’s face it, there’s something deeply satisfying about watching someone smash the ball really far.

3. You can’t predict who will win

Over the past 15 stagings of the US Open there have been – you guessed it – 15 different winners, making this arguably the most unpredictable competition in world golf. Meanwhile, the last champion to successfully defend the title was Curtis Strange (pictured, above) in 1989.

4. It’s being staged at one of golf’s great courses

Shinnecock Hills is considered one of the sport’s finest venues, and it’s not difficult to understand why. With its distinctly vintage look and feel – the clubhouse, opened in 1892, is the oldest in the US – being there is like being transported back to the Victorian era. But don’t be fooled by its genteel, retro vibes: this difficult links-style course will find you out if you’re not at the top of your game.

5. It's time for a European winner

The last three winners of the US Open have hailed from the States, with Jordan Spieth triumphing in 2015, Dustin Johnson in 2016 and Koepka last year. Do we really want another American grabbing the glory in 2018? In case you were in any doubt, the answer is an emphatic no. The in-form likes of Paul Casey, Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson and Tommy Fleetwood will be determined to break the US stranglehold on the title.

Watch on the go

Virgin TV customers who subscribe to Sky Sports can watch on the Sky Sports app, anywhere in the UK with a WiFi or mobile data connection. Not only will you be able to take your Sky packages with you, but you get in-depth sports coverage, as well as exclusive videos and interviews. And, also on iPad, you can access extra features, including Sky Sports’ cutting-edge second-screen functions. Download from the Apple app store for iPad or iPhone, or from Google Play. 

Upgrade to Sky Sports now

Don’t have Sky Sports? You can find out about our Sky Sports package and upgrade here.