Teen prospect Miles Russell gets set to make his pro debut
Golf fans are in for a treat this week as 15-year-old sensation Miles Russell prepares to make his PGA Tour debut at the 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic, June 27-30 at Detroit’s own Detroit Golf Club. The tournament broadcasts live on TSN and CBS.
As the PGA Tour heads to Detroit, all eyes will be on Russell, the youngest champion in Junior Players Championship history. Now, as one of the youngest players to ever make the PGA Tour cut, the Jacksonville Beach, Fla., native is set to make his pro golf debut in a highly competitive tournament.
“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,” Russell said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to making the most of the experience later this month.”
Leading up to his debut, Russell was the American Junior Golf Association player of the year in 2023. In 2024, Russell has continued his impressive play, posting a 5-under 66 at the LECOM Suncoast Classic in April, finishing the final round on an impressive run with seven birdies in 10 holes, making him the youngest player to complete a top-25 finish on either the PGA Tour or the Korn Ferry Tour since at least 1983.
While much of the focus will be on the 15-year-old phenom Russell, Rickie Fowler will try to defend his Rocket Mortgage Classic title. However, this season has seen Fowler struggle considerably since winning at the Detroit Golf Club in 2023.
Speaking to reporters at the Rocket Mortgage Classic media day, Fowler remained optimistic as he looks to become the first two-time champion at the tournament.
“A lot comes down to process and having self-belief. Things have been very close,” Fowler said via Zoom. “We’ve had a lot of good rounds. I just haven’t been able to piece them together and put a good week together,” said Fowler.
FACTS
Full name: Miles Russell Birthdate: Nov. 1, 2008 Birthplace: Jacksonville Beach, Fla. Height/weight: 5-6/116 pounds Honours and achievements: Boys Junior PGA Championship winner (2023), The Junior PLAYERS Championship winner (2023)