Ryder Cowan is a 21-year-old rising senior at the University of Oklahoma, making his debut at the U.S. Open.

How has Ryder Cowan performed at the U.S. Open?

Cowan posted a 2-under 68 in the first round and followed with a 72, finishing even-par through 36 holes to make the cut and lead the low amateur race.

What are Ryder Cowan's strengths on the course?

Cowan has excelled off the tee and around the greens, ranking eighth in Strokes Gained for both categories, and has a strong record in sand saves.

MajorsBy the GolfOdds Editorial TeamJul 2, 2026, 8:01 AM ET

Ryder Cowan Leads Low Amateur Race at Shinnecock Hills in U.S. Open Debut

Oklahoma's Ryder Cowan, making his U.S. Open debut, has positioned himself as the leading contender for low amateur honors after two strong rounds at Shinnecock Hills.

Ryder Cowan, a 21-year-old rising senior from the University of Oklahoma, has made a notable impression in his first U.S. Open appearance at Shinnecock Hills. After briefly holding the solo lead during Thursday's opening round, Cowan ultimately posted a 2-under 68, marking the lowest score among the 20 amateurs in the field. He acknowledged seeing his name atop the leaderboard, stating, "Through nine, I looked up and I was 3-under par. I definitely looked at that leaderboard, and I saw it up there."

Cowan continued his steady play into Friday, securing an even-par 140 total through 36 holes with a second-round 72. This performance comfortably allowed him to make the cut in his inaugural PGA Tour event and places him in a strong position to claim low amateur honors heading into the weekend. His consistent play has defied expectations for a U.S. Open rookie.

Consistent Play Around the Course

Cowan's success has been attributed to his proficiency both off the tee and around the greens, where he ranks eighth in Strokes Gained for both categories. He has missed only three fairways across his first two rounds and boasts a strong 5-for-7 record in sand saves, including two crucial par saves on Friday. Cowan emphasized the reliability of his short game: "My short game has always been something I can rely on. I'm not the biggest guy, so when I hit it in the rough, it's tough to get it out on the green, but my short game has been great this week. I've hit some unbelievable shots, but also, I feel like I've been leaving myself in good positions. So I think that that's helped a lot."

As one of 20 amateurs to begin the tournament, Cowan has distinguished himself, leading the amateur contingent by four strokes after the opening round. His ability to navigate the challenging conditions at Shinnecock Hills and contend for a significant amateur title underscores a promising debut on golf's major stage.

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FAQ

Who is Ryder Cowan?: Ryder Cowan is a 21-year-old rising senior at the University of Oklahoma, making his debut at the U.S. Open.
How has Ryder Cowan performed at the U.S. Open?: Cowan posted a 2-under 68 in the first round and followed with a 72, finishing even-par through 36 holes to make the cut and lead the low amateur race.
What are Ryder Cowan's strengths on the course?: Cowan has excelled off the tee and around the greens, ranking eighth in Strokes Gained for both categories, and has a strong record in sand saves.