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
Scottie Scheffler plays his tee shot on the sixth hole during the final round of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.

Scheffler’s sour showing Sunday

Final round failure for world number one.

Wyndham Clark fist pumps after sinking his putt on the 13th hole during the third round of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.

Clark and Scheffler paired together for final round at Shinnecock Hills

The game plan, possibilities and pathways each face.

Wyndham Clark reacts and acknowledges the crowd after sinking his putt on the 16th hole during the third round of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.

Enough is enough — move on

The Oakmont incident. Why it lingers for Wyndham?

The 11th hole

The terrific trio at Shinnecock Hills

The genius of William Flynn.

Wyndham Clark as seen on the eighth hole during the first round of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.

Clark leads five players by four after first two rounds

Scores second consecutive sub-70 round, seeks second US Open win.

Rory McIlroy plays his tee shot on the 11th hole during the first round of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y.

McIlroy’s Mindset? Move on to round two

2026 US Open / Day one at Shinnecock Hills.

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