Brooks Koepka's Hand Numbness Linked to Possible Nerve Issues Despite Clear Neck Scans
Sport Bilder des Tages Brooks Koepka of the USA, checks his putt on the tenth hole during the first day of competition at the 121st US Open Championship at Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego, California on Thursday, June 17, 2021. PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxHUNxONLY CAP20210617102 RICHARDxELLIS
Sport Bilder des Tages Brooks Koepka of the USA, checks his putt on the tenth hole during the first day of competition at the 121st US Open Championship at Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego, California on Thursday, June 17, 2021. PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxHUNxONLY CAP20210617102 RICHARDxELLIS
Concerns were raised about Brooks Koepka's possible return to play at the US Open after his shocking withdrawal from the RBC Canadian Open last week. The American golfer had experienced discomfort in his hand at the TPC Toronto event, forcing him to step out from the event ahead of its final round, scheduled for Sunday.
On Monday, in an exclusive text to Golfweek, the five-time major winner provided an update on his health. He said he underwent scans for C5 and C6 on Sunday. Although the report was clear, his team said there would be two potential causes for his numbness in his hand.
One possible cause is an ulnar nerve issue, while another is thoracic outlet syndrome. An ulnar nerve issue can lead to numbness and weakness in the hand. Thoracic outlet syndrome, on the other hand, occurs when blood vessels or nerves in the neck and shoulder area are compressed.
LA JOLLA, CA - JANUARY 31: Brooks Koepka plays his shot from the seventh tee on the South course during the Farmers Insurance Open on January 31, 2026, at Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, CA. Photo by Karl Anderson/Icon Sportswire GOLF: JAN 31 PGA, Golf Herren Farmers Insurance Open EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon272260131023
LA JOLLA, CA - JANUARY 31: Brooks Koepka plays his shot from the seventh tee on the South course during the Farmers Insurance Open on January 31, 2026, at Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, CA. Photo by Karl Anderson/Icon Sportswire GOLF: JAN 31 PGA, Golf Herren Farmers Insurance Open EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon272260131023
Despite the concerns, when asked if he might consider withdrawing from the US Open, he replied, saying, “I’m gonna go this week.”
However, the bigger question here remains: will these lingering symptoms affect Koepka’s chances for the U.S. Open campaign this week?
How the Injury Could Impact Koepka’s U.S. Open Chances
Koepka has reportedly admitted to the numbness and weakness, causing issues with his grip strength. It resulted in him staying away from the course at Shinnecock Hills on Monday. Even so, he said that he will be present on Tuesday for a practice round.
This will give him a chance to hit balls on the range and test the mobility of his hand. He can further evaluate the extent of his injury and decide on the correct course of action.
Albeit, if his symptoms seem to continue or even worsen, it could significantly impact the five-time major champion's chances to play in the major.
Whether or not Koepka will be able to contend ultimately depends on how his hand responds.
Written by
Avantika Das
Edited by
Ankita Yadav