How many amateurs are competing in the 2026 U.S. Open?

There are 21 amateur golfers in the field for the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, making up over 13 percent of the total competitors.

Who is Jackson Koivun and what is his status?

Jackson Koivun is the world's top-ranked amateur golfer and is competing in his final event as an amateur at the 2026 U.S. Open before turning professional.

MajorsBy the GolfOdds Editorial TeamJul 1, 2026, 11:01 AM ET

Amateur Talent Shines at Shinnecock: 21 Non-Pros Set to Compete in U.S. Open

A significant contingent of 21 amateur golfers, including the world's top-ranked player, will challenge Shinnecock Hills at the 2026 U.S. Open.

The 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills features a notable presence of amateur talent, with 21 non-professional golfers comprising over 13 percent of the field. This group includes some of the world's most promising young players, many of whom secured their spots through various qualifying events and championships.

Among the amateur contingent is Jackson Koivun, currently ranked as the world's No. 1 amateur. Koivun is making his second U.S. Open appearance and has announced his intention to turn professional following this tournament. His preparation for Shinnecock Hills included reviewing YouTube videos from the 2018 U.S. Open to understand course lines and strategy. Koivun arrived early to the course, focusing on tee shot lines, identifying potential misses, and refining his short game. He noted, "I watched some YouTube videos from 2018 to see some lines and stuff. But I got out here pretty early this week, trying to figure out start lines off the tees and where my misses are and kind of go from there. Just doing a lot of chipping and putting work, but understanding that the golf course is going to change some Thursday." Koivun is currently priced at +2200 (Bovada).

Diverse Paths to Shinnecock

The 21 amateurs represent a variety of pathways to the national championship. Hamilton Coleman earned his spot by winning the 2025 U.S. Junior Amateur. Ethan Fang secured his place almost a year ago as the British Amateur champion. Other qualifiers include Ryder Cowan, who advanced through a playoff in final qualifying, and Marek Fleming and Vaughn Harbor, both of whom navigated local and final qualifying stages to make their major debuts.

The Oklahoma State Cowboys golf program is particularly well-represented, with three All-Americans competing as amateurs: Preston Stout, Eric Lee, and Ethan Fang. In a unique arrangement, all three Oklahoma State golf coaches are caddying for their players. Head coach Alan Bratton is on the bag for Preston Stout, who qualified after earning medalist honors at the NCAA Championships. Stout is currently listed at +15000 (Bovada). Assistant coaches Stratton Nolen and Coach Darr are caddying for Ethan Fang and Eric Lee, respectively.

Compare the odds

U.S. Open odds →Tiger Woods Jackson Koivun Ethan Fang Hamilton Coleman Marek Fleming Ryder Cowan Preston Stout Eric Lee

FAQ

How many amateurs are competing in the 2026 U.S. Open?: There are 21 amateur golfers in the field for the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, making up over 13 percent of the total competitors.
Who is Jackson Koivun and what is his status?: Jackson Koivun is the world's top-ranked amateur golfer and is competing in his final event as an amateur at the 2026 U.S. Open before turning professional.
Which Oklahoma State golfers are playing in the U.S. Open?: Three Oklahoma State All-Americans are competing as amateurs: Preston Stout, Eric Lee, and Ethan Fang. Their respective coaches are caddying for them.