What is the barranca at the 2023 U.S. Open?

Let’s just cut right to it. If you’re here, there’s a good chance it’s because you’ve been watching the U.S. Open and hearing the announcers talk about the barranca.

And there’s an equally good chance you’re asking yourself what in the heck is barranca?

Good news! We have a very simple answer: It’s a narrow, winding gorge that snakes through the course at Los Angeles Country Club. It’s also not really a place you want to hit a golf ball into.

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Fortunately, there isn’t much water in the barranca this week, so players may be able hit out safely. According to the USGA, anyone who does find themselves stuck in the barranca will be presented with the unpleasant choice to either hit the ball as it lies or take relief for the price of one penalty stroke. Which makes it best to simply avoid at all costs.

But on the bright side: now you know what barranca is!

Barranca (noun)
1. A steep-walled ravine or gorge
2. Not a spot you want to hit your golf ball

Here are the rules that apply if a player ends up in a barranca this week at LACC. pic.twitter.com/xueIpn6EGn

— USGA (@USGA) June 13, 2023