OAKMONT, Pa. — From dressing up as golf legend Bobby Jones for Halloween at age four to preparing for his debut on one of golf`s grandest stages, Mason Howell`s journey has always been centered on the sport. His father, Robb Howell, notes, “It really is all he wants to do. He`d rather do this than eat or sleep… He wants to play golf.”
This week, the 17-year-old will realize a dream, competing in the 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club. As the youngest participant in the 156-player field, Howell sees this opportunity as a testament to dedication. “It kind of just shows that the hard work does pay off,” Howell reflected, mentioning countless hours practicing in the South Georgia heat. “This experience is unlike something I`ve ever done before, so it`s absolutely crazy.”
Howell secured his spot impressively, not just sneaking in but dominating qualifying. He was a co-medalist at his local qualifier in Florida with a 7-under 64. His final qualifying performance in Atlanta was even more remarkable: 36 bogey-free holes, posting two rounds of 9-under 63. He shared medalist honors there, outpacing a field that included major champions and PGA Tour players. His father wasn`t entirely surprised, recalling Mason`s ability to shoot incredibly low scores, including a 13-under 59 at his home course when he was just 14.
Mason`s passion for golf began early. He received his first clubs at five and played in his first tournament a year later. By age 12, he committed solely to golf, leaving behind tennis and baseball. He even competed on his school`s varsity team as a sixth grader, often surprising older high school opponents with his skill.
Currently a rising senior at the Brookwood School in Thomasville, Georgia, Howell has been a key player since eighth grade, helping his team win multiple state titles and securing an individual state championship himself. Prior to U.S. Open qualifying, he was ranked 470th in the World Amateur Ranking, with notable junior wins like the Future Masters (following in the footsteps of players like Bubba Watson and Scottie Scheffler) and the Billy Horschel Junior Championships.
His coach, Jimmy Gillam, who is caddying for him at Oakmont, describes Howell as “an unbelievable talent” who “works his ass off.” Gillam, a former mini-tour player who won a local event at Oakmont, praised Howell`s putting as among the best he`s ever seen. He also highlighted Mason`s quick learning ability, comparing working with him to “playing a video game.” However, Gillam stressed that Oakmont`s challenging conditions will require disciplined play.
Howell also spent time practicing with PGA Tour winner Harris English, who has ties to Howell`s hometown. English was highly impressed, stating Mason “He`s way better than I was at 17” and possesses “all the tools.” English, a University of Georgia alum, noted that the experience of playing in front of large crowds and on challenging courses like Oakmont is invaluable for the young golfer who is committed to play at UGA in 2026.
Mason understands the difficulty Oakmont presents with its thick rough and fast greens. His primary goals are to make the 36-hole cut and earn low amateur honors, achievements previously accomplished by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Phil Mickelson. Making the cut would also place him among the youngest players to do so in the U.S. Open since World War II.
Reflecting on the moment, Robb Howell shared, “It`s pretty cool for a parent to watch a kid`s dream come true… All he`s ever wanted to do was play golf, and he`s wanted to be a professional golfer his whole life.” Reigning U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau offered simple but profound advice to the young player: “Just be grateful… I lost sight of how cool it was to be traveling the country at that time and playing golf.”
As Mason Howell steps onto the tee this week, turning 18 later this month, he carries the hopes of his family, coaches, and hometown, ready to test his talent against the world`s best on golf`s toughest stage, embracing the incredible experience.
Benedict Kingsley 
Adrian Whitmore