Amateur golfer Luke Clanton earns exemption into 2025 US Open, Open Championship after winning McCormack Medal

As a result of his winning the McCormack Medal, Luke Clanton will be on the field for the 2025 US Open and Open Championship. The amateur golfer played in the US Open this year and will be able to add two more Major appearances in 2025.

Clanton received this medal for finishing as the top-ranked player on the 2024 World Amateur Golf Ranking. The winner is always awarded an exemption into the two Majors.

Clanton said via Gulf News:

“Winning the McCormack Medal is an honor I will cherish forever. This award represents not just my efforts, but also the incredible family support I have. This will inspire me to keep pushing boundaries and to pursue my dreams with even greater determination. I’m proud to join the ranks of those who have achieved this distinction.”

Luke Clanton has had success all season long. The amateur most recently appeared in the Wyndham Championship, where he finished solo fifth after shooting 14 under. He also played in the 3M Open but missed the cut at one over.

He also tied for second at the John Deere Classic, shooting an astonishing 24 under. At the Rocket Mortgage Classic, he was 14 under and tied for 10th, giving him two top-10 finishes as an amateur on the PGA Tour.

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Golf execs praise Luke Clanton after medal award

The McCormack Medal is a high honor, one of the highest an amateur can get in golf. Every year, it's given to the top-ranked amateur. While best is subjective, Luke Clanton finished ahead of everyone else and received the award.

Luke Clanton earned the McCormack Medal (Credits: IMAGN)

Clanton also received a lot of praise from golf executives. Professor Steve Otto, chief technology officer at The R&A, said via Gulf News:

“We would like to congratulate Luke on this outstanding achievement as he follows in the footsteps of the notable names who have won this prestigious award in previous years. His outstanding results over the past year demonstrate the high standards he has set himself and he is a thoroughly deserving recipient of the medal.”

USGA Chief Championships Officer John Bodenhamer added that Clanton has proven to be a "future star" and they are thrilled to see him win this honor, stating:

“To perform consistently at such a high level and deliver outstanding performances reflects the hard work and dedication that Luke has applied as an elite amateur golfer. We look forward to seeing his career continue to prosper in the years ahead.”

Clanton has not turned pro yet but appears poised to take the next step soon after so much success as an amateur. If nothing else, he's assured a spot in at least two Major tournaments next season.