15-Year-Old Miles Russell Makes History at Korn Ferry Tour Event

Miles Russell, a 15-year-old high school freshman from Jacksonville Beach, Florida, has become the youngest player to make the cut in the 35-year history of the Korn Ferry Tour. Russell posted a 5-under 66 in the second round of the LECOM Suncoast Classic, which included two eagles on the front nine and two birdies to start the back nine. He made the cut and is currently tied for 26th place at 8-under par, six shots behind the leader Brandon Crick.

Russell expressed being "kind of speechless" about this achievement, noting that it's a "cool record to break" and that people are getting so good at golf at a young age. By making the cut, Russell surpasses the previous record held by Guan Tianlang, who made the cut at the 2013 Masters and 2013 Zurich Classic of New Orleans at the age of 14.

Despite his young age, Russell has already achieved significant junior accomplishments. He was named the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) Boys Player of the Year in 2023, becoming the youngest player to receive this honor. Russell is also the youngest winner of the Junior Players Championship and nearly qualified for the PGA Tour's Puerto Rico Open last month, losing in a playoff.

Russell, who has been taking online classes since the eighth grade, carries himself like a pro on the course. His creative short game, high golf IQ, and impressive swing speed have helped him showcase his exceptional golfing skills this week. As an amateur, Russell is ineligible to earn money from the tournament's $1 million purse, but a top-25 finish would earn him entry into next week's Veritex Bank Championship in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Why this matters: Miles Russell's historic achievement at such a young age highlights the increasing talent and competitiveness in the world of golf. His success on the Korn Ferry Tour suggests he has the potential for a bright future in professional golf.

Russell's performance at the LECOM Suncoast Classic is proof of his skill and dedication to the sport. As he continues to compete against professionals more than twice his age, Russell remains focused on his game. "I'm here to play golf, not to see how cool the locker room is or anything," he said. With his impressive junior resume and now a record-breaking performance on the Korn Ferry Tour, Miles Russell is undoubtedly a rising star in the golfing world.

Key Takeaways

• 15-year-old Miles Russell made the cut on the Korn Ferry Tour, a record.
• Russell posted a 5-under 66 in the second round, including 2 eagles.
• Russell is the youngest player to be named AJGA Boys Player of the Year.
• As an amateur, Russell is ineligible to earn prize money but can qualify for next week's event.
• Russell's performance highlights the increasing talent and competitiveness in professional golf.