Max Homa is among several notable golfers who didn’t secure exemption for the 2025 US Open at Oakmont, leaving the outcome dependent on qualifiers in Ohio. Dubbed “the longest day of golf,” this event saw Homa competing alongside other well-known players like Ricky Fowler and Cameron Young across ten different locations nationwide.
The Kinsale Golf and Fitness Club provided six qualifying spots, with many golfers playing their second rounds on Monday. Unfortunately, Homa found himself in a playoff after his third putt on the 36th hole put him alongside Fowler, Young, Eric Cole, and Chase Johnson. Young ultimately clinched the last qualifying spot with a birdie on the 38th hole.
On the course, Homa was a bit isolated, as he had recently parted ways with his caddy, Bill Haake, which meant he ended up carrying his own bags throughout the 38 holes. “I just want to focus on golf, not the caddy situation,” Homa commented, seemingly brushing off any frustration. “I just turned my 36 into hoofs,” he added, suggesting he was coping with the physical demand.
Despite all this, Homa seemed somewhat indifferent to the experience. He remarked, “It’s probably going to be heartbreaking, but it’s fine. I haven’t carried 36 holes of bags in a while, so I’m a little tired.” Looking ahead, Homa is scheduled to play in the Canadian Open this week, where he will need a win to get into the top 60 rankings.
His recent performances have been a mixed bag. After finishing tied for 12th at the Masters, he slipped to 70th, T30, T60, and T51 in subsequent events. Last year, he had reached as high as ranked 10th in the world.
Fowler, competing in this year’s Open Championship, finished within the top ten, though the outcome felt somewhat sarcastic given the context of the strong field. It’s a tough game, and despite setbacks, there’s always that hope for redemption. What goes up must come down, right?
