Max Homa, Rickie Fowler Bested in Epic Playoff for Last US Open Spot

Newsweek

2 days ago

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We are just nine days away from the third major of the season. And professionals fought hard for their spot at Oakmont in the 'Longest Day of Golf.'
The final spot for the U.S. Open qualifier at Columbus came down to a dramatic five-man playoff on Monday. It featured Cameron Young, Rickie Fowler, Max Homa, Eric Cole, and Chase Johnson.
Max Homa, Rickie Fowler Bested in Epic Playoff for Last US Open Spot. Image Collage (Credits: Getty Images)
Max Homa, Rickie Fowler Bested in Epic Playoff for Last US Open Spot. Image Collage (Credits: Getty Images)
Getty Images
After 36 gruelling holes, all five players sat tied at 5-under, battling for the last six available spots for their ticket to U.S Open. Homa actually was one shot clear but a bogey on his final hole opened up a chance for the other four men.
In the end, it was 28-year-old Young who delivered a birdie under pressure on the first playoff hole. That secured his place in the third major of the season.
Meanwhile, Fowler and Homa watched their U.S. Open hopes continued to slip away, marking a gut-wrenching end to their qualifying efforts.
🚨CAMERON. YOUNG. ☢️
Punches his ticket to Oakmont, defeating Max Homa, Rickie Fowler, Eric Cole & Chase Johnson. @CamYoungLegion pic.twitter.com/3sFWzDwRr7 — NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) June 2, 2025
For Rickie Fowler, the heartbreak was especially bitter.
Just days earlier, Fowler had earned a spot in The Open Championship after a T7 finish at the Memorial Tournament.
But in case of the U.S. Open, his fate just mirrored that of Sergio Garcia, who also failed to qualify for the first time since 1999.
Fowler had his chances in regulation, but missed birdie bids on Nos. 16 and 17, forcing him into the playoff.
On the first extra hole, his approach shot sailed long, leaving him in a tough position. Unable to get up-and-down, his par attempt failed, ending his U.S. Open dreams.
Meanwhile, Max Homa's struggles continued. The six-time PGA Tour winner has been battling inconsistency all season, and this latest setback only added to his woes.
Max Homa's U.S Open setback comes with a larger issue
Homa's qualifying journey was unique—he carried his own bag throughout the 36-hole marathon, and was the only player to do so. When asked about the situation, Homa kept it brief.
"I'd much rather talk about the golf instead of all the questions about the caddie," he said. "I'm good. Just hoofed it 36."
🚨🏌️✌️ #NEW: Max Homa and Caddie Bill Harke have split after two months, @dougferguson405 reports: I'd much rather talk about the golf instead of all the questions about the caddie….I'm good. Just hoofed it 36." Homa lost in a 5 for 1 playoff today, failing to qualify for the… pic.twitter.com/ZGhdquYnxp — NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) June 3, 2025
Despite his determined effort, Homa three-putted his final hole in regulation, missing a golden opportunity to qualify outright. In the playoff, he missed a crucial birdie putt, resulting in his elimination.
But hope isn't entirely lost for either. While their U.S. Open chances are slim, they could still receive a special invitation from the USGA, much like Garcia, who is also hoping for a miracle. Or, finish high enough at the RBC Canadian Open this week on the PGA Tour to climb inside the top 60 in the Official World Golf Rankings.
Admittedly, that is highly unlikely.
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