At just 17, Mason Howell has captured the golf world’s attention with his remarkable performance at the 2025 U.S. Open. This high school junior from Thomasville, Georgia, became one of the youngest players ever to compete in the prestigious tournament, teeing off at Oakmont Country Club on June 12, 2025. His journey from a small-town golfer to a major championship contender is nothing short of inspiring. Let’s dive into the latest news surrounding Mason Howell and explore why he’s a name to watch in golf’s future.
Mason Howell’s Historic Qualification
Mason Howell earned his spot at the 2025 U.S. Open with a jaw-dropping performance during final qualifying at the Piedmont Driving Club in Atlanta on June 2, 2025. He shot back-to-back rounds of 63, finishing at an astonishing 18-under-par without a single bogey. This feat not only secured his place at Oakmont but also tied him for first with 22-year-old Jackson Buchanan. Howell’s composure under pressure stood out, as he outshone seasoned players like 2007 Masters champion Zach Johnson. His qualification has sparked excitement among fans, with many calling it one of the most impressive amateur performances in recent memory.
- Age: 17, making him the youngest player in the 2025 U.S. Open field.
- School: Junior at Brookwood High School in Thomasville, Georgia.
- Achievement: Shot 63-63 in qualifying, totaling 18-under-par.
First Round at Oakmont: A Promising Start
Mason Howell’s U.S. Open debut began on June 12, 2025, with an 8:46 a.m. tee time alongside Joakim Lagergren and Chris Gotterup. Playing the back nine first, Howell showed resilience despite a challenging start. He parred the 10th hole but bogeyed the 11th, sitting at +1 through two holes. Observers noted his ability to scramble after missing the fairway off the tee, a testament to his short-game skills honed under coach Jimmy Gillam. Howell’s performance is being closely tracked, with fans eager to see if he can join the elite group of 17-year-olds who have made the cut at the U.S. Open, a feat last achieved by Michael Thorbjornsen in 2019.
The Making of Mason Howell
Howell’s rise to golf stardom began early. At age 4, he dressed as a golfer for Halloween, hinting at his future passion. By 12, he quit tennis and baseball to focus solely on golf, competing on the varsity team at Maclay School in Tallahassee, Florida. His father, Robb, recalls opponents underestimating the young golfer, only to be outplayed by his skill. Now committed to the University of Georgia for 2026, Howell has already won a state championship with his high school team and claimed an individual title in 2025. His coach, Jimmy Gillam, caddies for him at Oakmont, bringing their close mentorship to the major stage.
Why Mason Howell Matters to Golf
Mason Howell represents the future of golf, a young talent unafraid to compete with the sport’s biggest names. His bogey-free qualifying rounds and bold debut at Oakmont have drawn praise from analysts like Marty Smith, who told Pat McAfee he’s excited to see what Howell can do. The teenager’s story resonates with fans because it embodies the U.S. Open’s spirit: anyone can earn a spot through hard work and skill. Howell’s poker-loving, missile-hitting personality adds charm, making him a fan favorite. If he makes the cut, he’ll cement his place among golf’s youngest legends.
What’s Next for the Young Star?
As the 2025 U.S. Open unfolds, all eyes are on Mason Howell. Can he navigate Oakmont’s tough course and make the cut? His second round tee time is set for 2:31 p.m. on June 13, 2025, offering another chance to showcase his talent. Beyond this week, Howell’s future looks bright. With a year of high school left and a college career at Georgia ahead, he’s poised to become a key player in the golf-to-PGA Tour pipeline. His performance at Oakmont could attract sponsors and open doors to professional opportunities.
Golf fans, keep cheering for Mason Howell as he takes on the U.S. Open! Follow his journey on social media for live updates and share your thoughts on this young star’s incredible debut.