You will definitely be seeing something new at the U.S. Open this year. Wicker baskets will be used in place of flags at Merion Golf Club. The exact origin of this tradition has never been verified, but the baskets have been used at Merion since 1916, and is used in the club's logo.
The baskets will be visible no matter what, however, they will not give the player an indication of which way the wind is blowing at the green.
The player that wins the U.S. Open will receive a wicker basket to add to their trophy case.
