What score indicates a tough test in the US Open? The modern standard suggests under par

SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — Even at Shinnecock Hills , one of America’s toughest courses preparing to host golf’s toughest test, one has to wonder what Arnold Palmer might say about winning a U.S. Open .

It was in 1960 at Cherry Hills when Palmer was seven shots behind going into the final round. Before heading to the first tee, where the King famously drove the first green, he turned to Bob Drum of the Pittsburgh Press and said: “What if I shoot 65? Doesn’t 280 always win the Open?”