Miles Russell is headed to Shinnecock Hills. The 17-year-old secured his spot at the 2026 US Open on Monday in dramatic fashion, chipping in for birdie on the second playoff hole to claim the fourth and final qualifying spot from the Florida sectional.
And he did it with Tiger Woods’ son Charlie on the bag.
“It kept it so light,” Russell said. “It’s the first time I’ve had a buddy on the bag. I really like it, not talking much golf, just having a good time.”
How Miles Russell Got Through
Russell navigated a tough 38-hole day at BallenIsles Country Club, opening with a 1-under 71 that included an early triple bogey. He bounced back with a superb 5-under 67 in the second round, carding seven birdies to force his way into a three-for-two playoff for the final spots.
After a bogey on the first extra hole, Miles Russell kept his composure and chipped in on the par-5 17th to seal his place at the 126th US Open.
He qualified alongside amateur Giuseppe Puebla, Canada’s Ben Silverman, and amateur Ryder Cowan. Notable players missing out from the Florida field included Matt Kuchar and Matthieu Pavon.
Notable Qualifiers and Absentees
Across all ten simultaneous qualifying events on golf’s longest day, 43 spots were up for grabs.
Billy Horschel was among those to make it through at Ohio-Springfield, while Tony Finau missed out by two shots, ending his US Open streak that dated back to 2017. Max Homa failed to qualify for the second straight year, losing out in a playoff in Canada.
Ireland’s Seamus Power and England’s Matt Wallace also failed to advance from the Canadian qualifier.
A Star on the Rise
Miles Russell is no stranger to making history. At 15, he broke Tiger Woods’ long-standing record as the youngest recipient of the AJGA Rolex Junior Player of the Year award.
When asked if Charlie Woods would caddie for him again at Shinnecock Hills, Russell smiled and kept his cards close. “We’ll see what he’s doing. To be determined.”
The 126th US Open tees off June 18-21 at Shinnecock Hills.
