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Camera Shutter Costs Charlie Woods 2026 Junior Amateur Spot

7/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Charlie Woods, 17, was eliminated from the 2026 U.S. Junior Amateur after a bogey on the first playoff hole.
A camera shutter clicked during his backswing, causing him to chunk the chip and miss a birdie.
Eli Wessel (Indianapolis) and Hudson Kutchma (Westfield, Indiana) advanced with pars on the second playoff hole.
Woods, ranked No. 174 and committed to Florida State for 2027, will have one chance in 2027.

History

Historical Context

Tiger Woods captured his first U.S. Junior Amateur title in 1991 and became the only three-time champion; Jordan Spieth later became the only other multiple winner. The USGA tournament, founded in 1948, expanded from 495 entrants to a 4,508-entry record in 1999, boosting television viewership. A camera flash disrupted Charlie Woods’ 2026 playoff chip, prompting the USGA to review equipment policies.

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Story summary

Charlie Woods, 17, was eliminated from the 2026 U.S. Junior Amateur after a bogey on the first playoff hole.
A camera shutter clicked during his backswing, causing him to chunk the chip and miss a birdie.
Eli Wessel (Indianapolis) and Hudson Kutchma (Westfield, Indiana) advanced with pars on the second playoff hole.
Woods, ranked No. 174 and committed to Florida State for 2027, will have one chance in 2027.

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