Mason Howell, 17, Makes History as Youngest in 2025 U.S. Open Field
Mason Howell, a 17-year-old from Georgia, has become one of the youngest players in U.S. Open history at the 2025 event. His stunning 63-63 qualifier scores earned him a spot at Oakmont.
Rising Star Shines at Oakmont
In a remarkable display of talent and determination, 17-year-old Mason Howell has etched his name into golf history as one of the youngest players to ever compete in the U.S. Open. The high school junior from Thomasville, Georgia, earned his spot in the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club with an astonishing performance during qualifying rounds. Howell shot an incredible 63-63, totaling 18-under-par over 36 holes at the Piedmont Driving Club in Atlanta on June 2, sharing medalist honors with Jackson Buchanan, a 2024 U.S. Amateur semifinalist.
Howell's journey to Oakmont began earlier with a local qualifier at Hawkstone Country Club in Gainesville, Florida, on May 8, where he posted a score of 64 to earn co-medalist honors. As a rising senior at Brookwood High School, he has already committed to play for the University of Georgia in 2026, showcasing his potential as a future star in the sport. His performance has captured the attention of golf enthusiasts nationwide, eager to see how he fares against the world's best.
From High School to Major Championship
Mason Howell's path to the U.S. Open is a testament to his hard work and dedication. In May, he led Brookwood High to its fourth state title in five years and clinched the individual state championship after surviving a playoff. Ranked No. 8 in the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) standings, Howell has proven his mettle among the top juniors in the country, with a win at the AJGA in 2023 adding to his growing resume.
'Hard work does pay off,' Howell remarked, reflecting on his journey to the biggest stage of his young career. His bogey-free rounds during qualifiers have set a high bar, and as he tees off on June 12 at Oakmont, he carries the hopes of inspiring a new generation of golfers. Howell's story is not just about talent but about perseverance, balancing high school commitments with the rigors of competitive golf.
The spotlight is now on this young Georgian as he navigates the challenges of a major championship. While expectations are high, Howell remains focused on gaining experience and learning from the seasoned professionals around him. His presence in the 156-player field underscores the unpredictable and inspiring nature of golf, where even a teenager can make history.
What Lies Ahead for Mason Howell
As the 125th U.S. Open unfolds from June 12 to 15 at Oakmont, all eyes will be on Mason Howell to see how he handles the pressure of competing in one of golf's most prestigious events. While making the cut would be a significant achievement for the 17-year-old, his participation alone marks a milestone in his budding career. Golf analysts are already touting him as a player to watch in the coming years, given his composure and skill under pressure.
Howell's commitment to the University of Georgia in 2026 signals a bright future, where he will likely hone his skills further under collegiate coaching. For now, his focus is on soaking in every moment of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at Oakmont. Whether he finishes near the top or simply gains valuable experience, Mason Howell's debut at the U.S. Open is a story of youthful ambition meeting extraordinary opportunity.