Charlie Woods' bid to play in prestigious golf tournament ends in disappointment

Charlie Woods' hopes of competing in one of golf's most prestigious championships have come to an end after the 17-year-old missed out on qualification for the 2026 U.S. Amateur.

The son of 15-time major champion Tiger Woods was unable to secure one of the available spots during Wednesday's qualifier, meaning he will not feature in next month's championship.

Charlie teed it up on the Scarlet Course at Ohio State University Golf Club on July 15.

He arrived at the 18-hole shootout full of confidence, hoping to continue his recent progress after earning his place in the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship last month.

However, a five-over-par 76 was not enough to see him advance.

His scorecard featured a mixture of highs and lows, with Charlie recording three bogeys, six bogeys, one double bogey and eight pars. 

A total of 13 players secured their places in the U.S. Amateur field from the qualifier, with two additional golfers earning alternate positions.

Charlie arrived at qualifying full of confidence after producing a dramatic performance to book his place at the U.S. Junior Amateur.

The teenager secured his spot in the prestigious event after surviving a play-off at Heathrow Country Club in Florida, where he posted a three-under-par 68 during qualifying.

Tiger enjoyed remarkable success as a junior golfer, winning the U.S. Amateur three times in a row from 1994. 

He also won the U.S. Junior Amateur in 1991, 1992 and 1993. 

Charlie will now shift his focus back towards his upcoming junior schedule as he looks to build on the progress he has made throughout the season.

It won't be long until he is playing at the collegiate level. In February, he verbally committed to Florida State University. 

It is unknown if Tiger was on site to support his son. 

He has faced another challenging period away from the golf course in recent months. 

Tiger was involved in a car crash in Florida in late March.

He has been charged with driving under the influence, property damage and refusing to submit to a lawful test.

Through his attorney, Woods has pleaded not guilty. 

In the immediate aftermath of the crash, Woods announced he was stepping away from the sport to seek treatment overseas. 

He completed a 90-day rehab programme in Switzerland and returned to the United States last month. 

The U.S. Amateur is one of the most prestigious events in golf and the oldest championship run by the USGA, having first been held in 1895. 

Unlike junior tournaments, the event features the best amateur players from around the world, with many future stars using it as a stepping stone towards professional golf.

Former champions include Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Phil Mickelson.

The 2026 U.S. Amateur will take place from 10-16 August at Merion Golf Club in Pennsylvania.