Even experts make mistakes.
Adam Svensson’s blunder during the U.S. Open qualifying round in Ontario might have significant repercussions for the PGA Tour player.
After Max McGreevey made a birdie putt at the Lambton Golf & Country Club in Toronto, securing the last available spot, Svensson thought it was time to wrap up the day, which already included an exhausting three-hole playoff and a demanding 36 holes—often referred to as “the longest day in golf.”
As he hurried to congratulate McGreevey, Svensson mistakenly picked up his ball marker. This choice meant he missed the opportunity to compete for the first alternate position alongside another golfer, Matt Wallace. They would have had a playoff to determine who claimed that crucial spot.
By removing his marker, Svensson effectively registered a DNF (Did Not Finish), positioning him as the second substitute instead.
Professional golfer Brendon de Jonge emphasized the seriousness of this mistake, noting, “There’s a good chance that Matt Wallace will play. It’s common for first substitutes to get a call-up,” as reported by GOLF.com. “That was a big mistake that Adam Svensson made. At the end of a long day, mental lapses can happen.”
Replacement players for the U.S. Open are chosen based on the caliber of those qualifying, and the field in Ontario was competitive, with many pros vying for a spot.
Following the second round, Emiliano Grillo, Alejandro Tosti, and Marcelo Rosso secured entries for the British Open. Yet, eight players were tied at 6 under and also competed for the final three spots. William Mow and John Parry both qualified after birdying their playoff holes, while Max Homa didn’t fare as well, starting with a bogey and falling out of contention.
Svensson, alongside McGreevey and Wallace, was supposed to battle for the last spot, but his oversight kept him from stepping onto the green.
There’s still another qualifying tournament wrapping up Tuesday morning in Oregon, so the full roster isn’t finalized yet.
The U.S. Open, set to kick off on June 18th, will feature 156 players. As for substitutes like Svensson and Wallace, it’s not uncommon for some direct qualifiers to withdraw, which could open the door for them.
