Oklahoma State's Preston Stout Claims 2026 NCAA Individual Golf Championship

CARLSBAD, California — Preston Stout, a junior golfer from Oklahoma State, has solidified his reputation in the college golf arena by clinching the 2026 NCAA Men's Golf individual title. Known among golf enthusiasts for his impressive amateur track record, Stout's recent triumph at Omni La Costa highlights his exceptional skill, particularly in a season marked by the overshadowing presence of world No. 1 Jackson Koivun.

Stout's journey to victory included a remarkable performance throughout the tournament, concluding with a 1-under par 71 on Monday. His final score of 7 under par was bolstered by a strong showing over the last three rounds, where he shot 67, 65, and 69 after an opening round of 73. A crucial birdie on the 72nd hole secured his one-shot win over Alabama's William Jennings, who narrowly missed a par putt that would have forced a playoff.

With this achievement, Stout becomes the tenth golfer from Oklahoma State to win the NCAA individual title, marking the first time the school has celebrated this honor since Matthew Wolff in 2019. His victory not only highlights his individual prowess but also sets him on a path toward significant opportunities, including exemptions into the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills and the 2027 Masters, provided he remains an amateur.

As he prepares for the upcoming team championship, Stout and his Oklahoma State teammates aim to defend their title, with aspirations of becoming the first team to win back-to-back championships since Alabama in 2013-14. Stout's stellar performance this season has positioned him well for a potential PGA Tour card, contingent on his ranking in the PGA Tour University Class of 2027.