Who is Ryder Cowan? U.S. Open amateur came through qualifying to lead at Shinnecock Hills

At least at one point on Thursday at Shinnecock Hills, the leader at the U.S. Open was an amateur.

His name: Ryder Cowan. He needed to advance through the recent qualifying stages just to get into the tournament.

And while it might not hold, at one point, he sat 3-under while no one else in the field was at that number.

So it's time to get to know a bit about Cowan.

MORE: How Keith Mitchell turned a 41-29 into the craziest round in U.S. Open history

Who is Ryder Cowan?

Cowan just completed his junior year as a collegiate golfer at the University of Oklahoma.

He stayed in his home state to play college golf for the Sooners after winning two state championships in high school.

Cowan was a finalist for the Haskins Trophy in 2026 -- the college golf award for the best player in the country.

How did Ryder Cowan qualify for the U.S. Open?

He qualified at the event at Ballen Isles Country Club in Florida.

Cowan shot a 6-under 138, then advanced in a playoff to seize the final spot at the U.S. Open.

Ryder Cowan in Drive, Chip, Putt

Cowan also has a noteworthy golf past:

U.S. Open leader Ryder Cowan was runner-up in @DriveChipPutt National Finals a mere 7 years ago. pic.twitter.com/hvz5OduZcz

This may not be the last time we hear his name.

MORE: A fan picked up Rory's golf ball in the middle of a hole