At just 15, Miles Russell is already making a name for himself in the golf world in ways most pros can only dream of. In 2024, he really shocked people with some standout performances, proving that age doesn’t hold him back. Whether it’s setting records, taking home titles, or going head-to-head with the top players, his journey has been one for the books. Russell has been a standout since he was six, and just recently, he made history by breaking Tiger Woods’s record for the youngest golfer to win AJGA Player of the Year — just a day after his 15th birthday. Here’s a look at the top five moments that have everyone talking about this rising star and his potential to shake up the game.
1. PGA Tour Debut at the Rocket Mortgage Classic:
In June 2024, Russell made his PGA Tour debut at the Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit. And even though he was one of the youngest players on the field, he played like someone who had been at it for years. He finished with an even-par 144 (74-70), just missing the cut, but honestly, that didn’t take away from how impressive he was. Sure, he didn’t make it to the weekend, but his game showed he has the chops to hang with the best. PGA Tour rookie and mentor, Raul Pereda, saw something special in Russell, saying, “We’re looking at a young Tiger Woods right here.” It’s clear Russell has a lot to learn, but if his debut is anything to go by, this kid’s got a bright future ahead and could easily become a regular on the Tour.
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2. Youngest to Make the Cut on the Korn Ferry Tour:
In April 2024, Russell became the youngest player to make the cut at the Korn Ferry Tour’s LECOM Suncoast Classic. His final-round 66, which included seven birdies over a 10-hole stretch, was a highlight of the tournament and had fans and pros alike talking. “It was an awesome week. It was a blast,” Russell said after the round. “Especially for my first one, you may get a couple of weird looks, like: ‘Who’s the little kid on the range?’” Regardless of raised eyebrows and side eyes, the way he handled the pressure, especially in his first Korn Ferry start, made it clear he’s already got a calm and composed approach to the big stage.
3. Winning the Junior PGA Championship:
Russell made history again when he won the 2024 Junior PGA Championship, becoming the youngest player ever to take home the title. His dominant victory, which saw him win by a seven-shot margin, broke Tiger Woods’ record for the youngest winner of the event. With an impressive 18-under-par score, Russell was on fire, and his final-round 66 sealed the deal. After the win, he said, “Ever since I first started playing golf, my dream has been to compete on the PGA Tour and test my game against the best players.” It’s clear he’s got big goals. And just to top it off, he also won the Junior PLAYERS Championship, shooting 70-66-71 to win by three shots. With two heavyweight titles already under his belt, Russell is definitely one to keep an eye on.
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4. Competing in the Butterfield Bermuda Championship:
Russell showed off his skills again at the 2024 Butterfield Bermuda Championship, putting together a solid performance over two rounds. He hit a couple of bogeys early in the second round (Nos. 16 and 17), but bounced right back by birdieing the first hole on the back nine. Overall, the teenage sensation reached 23 greens and averaged 274 yards off the tee. While his short game got the best of him a few times and Russell couldn’t book a weekend spot, the way he kept his cool and recovered so well in his first PGA Tour event was pretty impressive for someone his age.
5. Securing the South Beach International Amateur Title:
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One of Russell’s most recent wins came in December 2024, when he claimed the title at the South Beach International Amateur, held at Miami Beach Golf Club and Normandy Shores Golf Course. And he didn’t just win — he crushed the tournament’s scoring record by two strokes, finishing with a 19-under-par total. That’s just one of the many records he broke this year. The old record was 17-under, set by Henry Guan in 2022, and matched by Luke Clanton, who went on to win that year. But Russell made it clear with his performance that he’s not just here to compete — he’s here to dominate, no matter his age.
I gave out the trophy late this afternoon to Miles Russell. He won the South Beach international amateur played at Miami Beach GC. Super impressive golf against the stellar field 63,68, 63, 70–264! @southfloridapga @miamibeachgolf @JimMcLeanMBGC #golf #milesrussell pic.twitter.com/aVVWMMrHFx
— Jim McLean Golf (@McLeanGolf) December 22, 2024
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It’s pretty clear that Russell is just getting started. From breaking records at a young age to already making waves on the pro circuit, he’s shown he’s got the skill, composure, and drive to keep pushing the limits of what’s possible for someone his age. He’s already made a name for himself, but this is just the beginning. Whether it’s snagging more titles, improving his PGA Tour game, or maybe even making history at Augusta, one thing’s for sure: Miles Russell is definitely someone to keep an eye on for the long haul.
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