Rayan Ahmed is on the brink of making history for the UAE as he competes in the 2024 US Amateur Championship at Hazeltine National Golf Club on Monday and Tuesday. This is the first time in the tournament's 129-year history that the UAE will have a representative. Ahmed, a 17-year-old UAE passport holder, is scheduled to participate in the 36-hole qualifier. He recently made headlines by becoming a medalist in his latest qualifying round at Columbine Country Club, demonstrating his skill and resolve.
Following his performance, Ahmed stated: "I drove exceptionally well, averaging over 320 yards off the tee, and managed to hit the greens and make the ups and downs. I was in the zone, and my putting was on point. I sank everything." He added, "I'm really pleased with my game's current state. I'm thrilled to be flying the flag for the UAE in the U.S. Amateur. I'm deeply thankful to my parents for their unwavering support through my highs and lows."
Ahmed's first round will be at Chaska Town Golf Club at 12.52 pm from Hole 10 (local US time). Tuesday's round will be at Hazeltine National Golf Club at 7.22 am from Hole 1, with the top 64 players advancing to the match play competition, including a play-off if necessary to finalize the field size. Wednesday features one round of match play, Thursday has two rounds, Friday hosts the quarter-finals, with the semis on Saturday and the Championship Match over 36 holes on Sunday – all match play rounds will be held at Hazeltine.
Hazeltine National is renowned worldwide as a significant challenge in golf. It is one of the few clubs in the country to have hosted every major championship offered by both the USGA and PGA of America. Hazeltine is the only club in the country chosen to host The Ryder Cup for a second time. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones and opened in 1962.
For more information, visit: www.championships.usga.org
