The US Open hasn't been played at Merion Golf Club in nearby Ardmore, PA since 1981.

The 113th US Open is now in danger of being marred by Mother Nature.

Over an inch of pouring rains fell on the golf course on Monday, holes remained off limits and practice rounds were delayed multiple times.

Tom Rinaldi, ESPN, has been stationed in Ardmore since this weekend and called into "The Sportsbash" this week with a LIVE report from Merion and the conditions.

"The USGA is very concerned about protecting par with these conditions," Rinaldi said.

Two-time champion Ernie Els told reporters on Monday that the course won't dry up in time and the course will be soft all week.

"There's quite a few par-4s where you've just got to put it in the fairway. ... You're going to see a lot more birdies than ever."

The US Open tees off on Thursday with the opening round.

 

 

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