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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Golf presents itself as a game of determination, strength, and perseverance. It requires both physical and mental fortitude to overcome the challenges. Taking this into consideration, the US Adaptive Open was created. While the stunning golfers who compete in the event have earned praise from the likes of Tiger Woods himself in the past, this year one man has perhaps outshone the rest.

The pro in question, a South Ogden resident, has overcome the worst of what life can throw at him and is now competing in the 2023 US Adaptive Open. His inspiring story of how willpower can help those who are dealt the worst cards in life pick themselves up and continue to work towards their dreams has now caught the eye of the golf world too!

Young pro shines at the 2023 US Adaptive Open

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Held at the Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina, the US Adaptive Open golf tournament is designed for impaired golfers. Golfers with physical, intellectual, or neurological impairments can participate in this event.

Max Togisala, a 19-year-old, is currently playing at the event in the seated category. The youngster shot a stunning 2-under-par round of 70 this Tuesday during the second round of the event. The score currently stands as the best score in the event’s history in the men’s seated category by 9 strokes!

Watching his performance, fans have thought back to the one and only Phil Mickelson, mostly thanks to Togisala playing with his left hand too, just like the LIV star does!

Togisala’s story started in February 2022, during a skiing incident in Idaho. The incident left him paralyzed from the waist down. This, however, did not break his spirit or his love for golf. After two months of hospital bedrest, he returned home in April 2022, determined to return to the sport.

One year later, he is now one of the seven players in his category. With the help of a powerful single-seat golf cart, he is now making waves on the course. He shot 10-over-par 82 during round 1 and quickly turned the tide in his record-breaking second round. And now, with just one round remaining, he sits 14th on the overall scoreboard of the tournament, undoubtedly looking to rise to the top.

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Fans cheer Togisala on following his brilliant second round

Togisala is quite active on social media, too. On his Instagram (mad.max42), he often shares videos of his performance during the US Adaptive Open and other aspects of his life. And with his now viral video thanks to the USGA’s recent post of his historic score, he’s been garnering a lot of attention online. Here are some of the comments through which the fans have been showering him with love and support on social media!

“And he’s a lefty!!!!”

“Amazing job Max! Keep it up!”

“Our boy is one of a kind”

“Way to go!!! Cheering you on Max!”

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“Incredible! You are the man!!!!”

“Nice job Max! Enjoyed seeing you kick some b***. Bring that trophy back to Utah!”

The Golf Channel is currently airing the tournament on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (ET), followed by 3–4 p.m. (ET). Togisala and the other players are inspirational not just to golf enthusiasts but to players across the globe. They have proven that willpower, determination, and perseverance can trump anything that gets in the way of your dreams.

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What do you think about Togisala and his inspiring journey? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.