M. James Ward

Written by M. James Ward

A long-time member of both the GWAA and MGWA. The 68-year-old has covered all facets in golf since 1980 — including reporting on over 100 major championships and 13 Ryder Cup matches. His writings have appeared in various outlets. On a personal level, has played over 2,000 courses globally and is lead reviewer for Top 100 Golf Courses. 

Previously served for 17 years as national course rating panelist for Golf Digest. Has also personally competed in USGA Championships. Resides in the metro New York City area with his wife Celeste. Favorite quote paraphrased for golf — “You are what your golf score says you are.”

M. James Ward
A detailed view of a tee marker at the 9th hole during a practice round ahead of the 2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.

Eight questions needing answers at Shinnecock

2026 US Open underway

How to plan a golf day: A step-by-step guide

Does proposed solution solve problem or simply cause another to happen?

USGA stands behind rolling back golf ball for all.

USGA Chief Championships Officer, Jon Bodenhamer, speaks in press conference during a practice round ahead of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y. on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. (Chris Keane/USGA)

“Let Shinnecock be Shinnecock”

USGA touts straightforward game plan for Open.

The Fourth Hole of Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in the Southampton, N.Y.

Long Island’s lasting legacy

2026 US Open / Shinnecock Hills

John Ryan Celiberti as seen in the Hall of Champions in USGA Museum in the Liberty Corner, N.J.

John Ryan Celiberti interview

As Assistant Director for US Open Championships he oversees critical aspects of Championship planning.

A detailed view of a tee marker at the 9th hole during a practice round ahead of the 2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.

40 and counting!

Looking back on the venues, people and aura from America’s national championship.

The 2nd Hole

The Finicky Golfer – Shinnecock Hills Golf Club

This week the USGA will stage the 126th US Open championship at the storied Shinnecock Hills in New York.

Driftwood Golf & Ranch Club

The Finicky Golfer – Driftwood Golf & Ranch Club

Designed by Tom Fazio, situated roughly 30 minutes from the core downtown area of The Lone Star State’s capital city.

Lou Bomber Jacket

Derek Faith interview

President, Sunice & Bobby Jones

Aaron Rai raises the Wanamaker Trophy

Aaron Rai captures PGA Championship title

Final round 65 via 31 score on inward half vaults Englishman.

Lincoln Financial Center

Cobbs Creek — linking all to golf

Meaningful seeds planted – creating a lasting pathway.

Alex Smalley hits his tee shot on the 15th hole during the third round of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club

Can Smalley come up big Sunday?

Third round PGA Championship / Aronimink

Bryson DeChambeau hits his tee shot on the second hole during the second round of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club

PGA Championship / Round 2 — DeChambeau heads home early

Replicating failure at Augusta and now Aronimink.

Scottie Scheffler looks on from the 18th hole during the first round of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club

Scheffler — first among equals

Seven share lead after round one at PGA Championship.

The 7th green

What they said — round one PGA Championship

Seven share top spot at Aronimink.

The seventh hole at the Aronimink Golf Club

The Finicky Golfer – Aronimink Golf Club

Located in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. Host of the 108th PGA Championship.

A general view of the 2026 PGA Aronimink flag during the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club

Key questions await answers at Aronimink

108th PGA Championship starts today.

On the tee — Gary Player

PGA Championship.