17-Year-Old Miles Russell Secures U.S. Open Spot with Charlie Woods as Caddie

In a remarkable achievement, 17-year-old Miles Russell has qualified for the 2026 U.S. Open, a feat made even more impressive by the fact that he had fellow teenager Charlie Woods, the son of golf icon Tiger Woods, serving as his caddie. This duo is set to make their way to Shinnecock Hills next week after Russell clinched his spot during a qualifying event held at BallenIsles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Russell, born in late 2008, hails from Florida and has already made a name for himself in the amateur golf scene. He has been honored twice as the American Junior Golf Association Player of the Year and made history as the youngest player to achieve a top-20 finish on the Korn Ferry Tour. His first AJGA Player of the Year award came when he was just 15, surpassing even Tiger Woods in age at the time.

Currently ranked as the 10th-best amateur golfer globally and the top junior in the nation, Russell is still in high school but has committed to play for Florida State University in the class of 2027. With his U.S. Open appearance now secured, he could have significant tournament experience by the time he begins his collegiate career.

To qualify for the U.S. Open, Russell needed to place in the top four during the qualifier at BallenIsles. He navigated the course well, leading for much of the round before facing challenges on the 17th hole, where he ultimately tied for third place. A playoff against competitors Ryder Cowan and Tyler Collet determined who would advance, and Russell, alongside Cowan, successfully earned their spots in the prestigious tournament.

Charlie Woods, meanwhile, is not competing this time around as he missed his own opportunity to qualify. However, he stepped in as Russell's caddie, providing support to his friend and future Florida State teammate. The two share an agent and have forged a friendship, making this collaboration a natural fit as they prepare for their upcoming challenges in the world of golf.