The golf world is buzzing with excitement as Mason Howell, a 17-year-old high school junior from Thomasville, Georgia, makes his debut at the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club. Howell has become the youngest player in this year’s field, a remarkable achievement for any golfer at any age, let alone one who is still navigating the halls of Brookwood High School. Mason Howell’s journey to the U.S. Open is a story of talent, grit, and the relentless pursuit of a dream, and his presence at Oakmont is already inspiring young golfers everywhere.
Howell’s path to the U.S. Open began with a stunning performance at the Piedmont Driving Club in Atlanta, where he shot an astonishing 18-under par over two rounds—both flawless 63s—to secure his spot among the world’s best. Not only did he co-medal in the qualifier, but he did so without a single bogey, showcasing a level of consistency and composure that belies his age. His achievement is even more impressive considering he edged out seasoned professionals and fellow amateurs in a field that included Masters champion Zach Johnson. Howell’s accomplishment puts him in elite company, as only a handful of golfers under the age of 18 have ever qualified for the U.S. Open.
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The Making of a Prodigy: Mason Howell’s Rise
Mason Howell’s love for golf runs deep. At just four years old, he dressed up as 1920s golf legend Bobby Jones for Halloween, foreshadowing a lifelong passion for the sport. His father recalls that Howell would rather play golf than eat or sleep, and his dedication has paid off in spades. Howell is not just a talented player; he is a state champion, leading his Brookwood High School team to its fourth state title in five years. He is also ranked No. 8 on the American Junior Golf Association list and is set to join the University of Georgia Bulldogs after graduation in 2026.
Howell’s swing is described as efficient and powerful, with a rhythm that makes him look every bit the Tour pro he aspires to be. His ability to perform under pressure was evident during the qualifiers, where he remained calm and collected, navigating the course with a maturity that impressed everyone watching. “It kind of just shows that the hard work does pay off,” Howell said after qualifying. “All the days in the middle of the summer down in south Georgia heat, sweating, just beating balls and trying to make putts, and just a lot of hard work.”
Mason Howell at Oakmont: A New Chapter
As the 2025 U.S. Open gets underway, Mason Howell is the youngest competitor in a field of 156 elite golfers. He teed off on the 10th hole at Oakmont alongside Chris Gotterup and Joakim Lagergren, marking the start of what could be a life-changing week. The U.S. Open is known as the toughest test in golf, and Howell’s debut is as much a learning experience as it is a chance to compete. If he makes the cut, he will become only the third golfer under the age of 18 to do so since World War II, joining the ranks of Beau Hossler and Michael Thorbjornsen.
The support for Howell has been overwhelming. Fans have lined up for autographs, and his story is being followed by media outlets across the country. Howell’s humility and gratitude have also earned him praise from reigning U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau, who advised him to savor the moment and enjoy the experience. “Just be grateful, that’s one thing,” DeChambeau said. “I was so focused when I was 17 on being the best player I could be, I lost sight of how cool it was to be traveling the country at that time and playing golf.”
What Mason Howell’s Story Means for Golf
Mason Howell’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the magic of the U.S. Open’s open qualification system. The tournament’s charm lies in its ability to give rising stars like Howell the chance to compete on the biggest stage, regardless of age or experience. Howell’s success is inspiring a new generation of golfers, proving that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Mason Howell. Whether he makes the cut or not, his presence at Oakmont is already a victory. He has shown that age is just a number and that dreams can come true for those who are willing to put in the effort. Howell’s story is a reminder that the future of golf is bright, and that the next generation of champions is already here.