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Teen Makes Cut After Father Caddies Final Hole

6/22/2026

27 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Miles Russell’s Dad Caddies

Seventeen-year-old Miles Russell received USGA approval to have his father Joe caddie the 18th hole of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills on June 21, 2026.
Russell made par on the 18th, posted an even-par 70, tied for 40th and secured the cut by one stroke after rounds of 72 and 71.
Steve Wheatcroft suggested the swap and NBC’s Mike Tirico called it a Father’s Day moment.

Summary

Russell Enters Open

Russell entered the Open as the nation’s No. 1 junior golfer.
He earned his spot by winning a three-man playoff while Charlie Woods caddied.
In 2024 he became the youngest player ever to make a Korn Ferry Tour cut, finishing tied for 20th.
He is the first First Coast, Florida player to compete in a major championship.
He committed to Florida State University for college golf starting fall 2026.

History

Historical Context

The USGA launched the U.S. Junior Amateur in 1948, drawing 495 entrants and later expanding to a record 4,508 entries in 1999, with the top 64 after stroke play entering match play. Alumni such as Tiger Woods (three titles 1991-93) and Jordan Spieth have become PGA Tour stars. Today 17-year-old Miles Russell follows that pathway, earning a U.S. Open spot as the nation’s top junior.

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Miles Russell’s Dad Caddies

Seventeen-year-old Miles Russell received USGA approval to have his father Joe caddie the 18th hole of the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills on June 21, 2026.
Russell made par on the 18th, posted an even-par 70, tied for 40th and secured the cut by one stroke after rounds of 72 and 71.
Steve Wheatcroft suggested the swap and NBC’s Mike Tirico called it a Father’s Day moment.

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