Volatile. Ever-changing. Scary. The current atmosphere in the golf world is exactly along these lines. After all, a lot is at stake at the U.S. Open. Not only will a top finish fetch the winners and top-few rank holders major championship fame and associated benefits, but it will also translate into an increased chance for them to earn a spot in the team for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Even though the fourth and final spot is currently occupied by current OWGR World No. 7, Collin Morikawa, a final declaration of the American team will be made after the conclusion of the last qualifying event for the Olympic Games at Pinehurst No. 2. Therefore, it is safe to say that the fourth position for the U.S. team remains on the table still. But who are the top 5 American players in contention for a spot on the 60-player field in Paris?

Who are the top few players at the U.S. Open who still have a shot at Paris?

Many eyes are set on Morikawa’s spot at the Olympic Games in Paris, one he gained after moving one place up in the OWGR, thanks to his second-place finish at the Memorial. Among many contenders, the top few remain: Patrick Cantlay, Max Homa, Brian Harman, Sahith Theegala, and Keegan Bradley. Morikawa is aware of this.

Addressing the situation, Morikawa said, “I think there’s still six, seven eight guys … I think a lot of movement can happen. I knew two, three months ago where I stood, and I knew I had to start playing some good golf and we’ve played some good golf to put myself in contention. These weeks are going to be big and I know what’s at stake.”

Whether Morikawa will be able to safeguard his place or lose it to one of the next best five contenders remains to be seen. But curiosity has led us to explore why these five names are the strongest alternatives (and potential threats) to Morikawa’s current position.

1. Patrick Cantlay

“Cantlay is right behind,” said Morikawa, noting the 32-year-old’s standing threat to his own Olympic status. Currently, Patrick Cantlay remains stationed at OWGR’s World No. 9 position. An apt display of skills at the U.S. Open will sanction Morikawa’s spot for the next best American on the world ranking list, which is the 8-time PGA Tour winner, Patrick Cantlay.

While his last couple of performances have not played much of a role in enhancing his global position, it seems Cantlay has walked into the U.S. Open field with eyes set on the prize. Starting the opening round with a fire bolt of a performance, it’s safe to say that Morikawa needs to pick up pace if he wishes to safeguard his position in Paris.

2. Max Homa

Homa finds himself knocking on the door of an Olympic berth. With a stellar performance in the last few seasons and a consequent current OWGR rank of World No. 10, a further rise up the world rankings might just be on Homa’s cards. A strong U.S. Open could yield him such a climb up the top 8 and potentially help him qualify for Paris. His unmatchable ball-striking and improved putting make him a threat at any course, and Pinehurst No. 2 might not be an exception to this.

3. Brian Harman

This consistent left-handed golfer is next on the list of well-positioned Americans to make a push for the Olympics. While a win has not been on Harman’s card throughout the 2024 season, even after coming dastardly close by finishing T2 at the PLAYERS Championship, the U.S. Open might just be the key to all the locked doors in the lake of opportunities for this pro golfer.

Harman’s precision iron play and course management give him an edge. Ranked 11th in the world by OWGR currently, a finish in the top few places at the U.S. Open might just be Harman’s code to crack the fourth spot for Paris.

4. Sahith Theegala

The 26-year-old phenom has the talent and position to be the next best American choice. His standing as the OWGR’s World No. 12, coupled with his two runner-ups and five top-10 finishes, prodigious power, and mental toughness, all play the tune in his favor. If Theegala manages to work his charm and finishes in the top spots, it will give him the ladder he needs to replace Morikawa’s standing on the Olympic roster.

5. Keegan Bradley

The 2011 PGA Championship winner has faced both the high of the highs and the low of the lows over the years. Having endured multiple winless droughts and bouts of intense performance, this seasoned pro possesses a skill set like no other. Currently ranked as the next-best American at World No. 15 in the OWGR and boasting two strong runner-up finishes this season, Bradley is a veteran of big stages like the Ryder Cup.

His elite ball-striking could make him dangerous for Morikawa if he manages to capitalize it at the U.S. Open. Currently ranked 15th in the OWGR, Keegan Bradley’s pedigree and skill could enable him to overtake Morikawa, thereby increasing his chances for Paris.

All in all, it remains to be seen whether Collin Morikawa will be able to retain his spot or his might will be challenged by these next-best alternatives. All we know is that the U.S. Open’s conclusion is the only solution to this air of doubt. Stay tuned!