'Not Going To Avoid Elephant In The Room' - Mike Whan Confident Merger Won't Overshadow US Open

USGA CEO Mike Whan looks on during a practice round prior to the 123rd U.S. Open Championship at The Los Angeles Country Club

It's the topic that's impossible to avoid in golf right now, as the fallout from the shock merger between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia continues. 

But while some players have been reluctant to wade into the conversation, ahead of the 123rd US Open and first at Los Angeles Country Club, USGA CEO Mike Whan decided to confront the issue head on.