Not true, it is able to be played early if you know the backdoor like in years prior.
Just started and the first hole is already a joke. 560yd Par 4, not reachable in 2 unless you own the top top top tier longest driver and longest 3wd. (Or a big helping wind) WGT messed up again just like at Pinehurst. The hole in real life plays 559 on the scorecard as a Par FIVE, but for the U.S. Open they will change it between ~490yd Par 4 and a ~590yd Par 5. For some reason WGT made it a 560yd Par 4.
After playing some more holes it does seem like a fun course. Drivable par 4 12th is my favorite hole, but it's also nice that the first par 5 is very easily reachable. Should be some decent scoring, despite the numerous slopes. The tough holes are tough, but fair (with the exception of #1...) and the easy holes are get-able, I like it.