Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 20: Indian-American golfer Manav Shah has created history by becoming the first player from the Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) to qualify for a major championship since the league’s inception in September last year. He will now make his debut at the US Open in 2026.
The 33-year-old, who has been in strong form this season, recorded three top-seven finishes and one tied-11th finish in four IGPL appearances. Alongside his IGPL performances, Shah has also competed on the Asian Development Tour and the Asian Tour, steadily building momentum ahead of his breakthrough qualification.
Shah secured his US Open berth after finishing fourth in the 36-hole final qualifying event held at the Dallas Athletic Club. He posted rounds of 66 and 71 to finish at seven-under, earning one of the limited spots available for the major championship field.
“To play a Major is just amazing, and I have had a great run at the AM Green IGPL, and now I get to the US Open,” Shah said after qualifying.
Born to Indian-origin parents and raised in Bakersfield, California, Shah developed his game on public courses before playing collegiate golf for the UCLA Bruins. He graduated in 2015 with a degree in Political Science.
Over the course of his professional career, Shah has won eight titles globally. His most notable victory came at the 2022 Quito Open on the PGA Tour Latinoamérica, making him one of the few Indian-American golfers to win a PGA Tour-sanctioned event.
Shah later earned full playing rights on the Asian Tour through Q-School and has also competed in the International Series, further expanding his experience across global circuits.
The Dallas qualifying event was topped by Peter Uihlein (67-66), while Tom Kim (66-68) finished second and Cooper Dossey (65-70) placed third. Several established names also secured entry into the major, including former US Open champion Graeme McDowell, who qualified after rounds of 69 and 69.
However, the event also saw disappointments, with high-profile players such as Sergio Garcia missing out on qualification.
Shah’s qualification marks a significant milestone for Indian-origin representation in global golf, with the US Open set to be held at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in 2026.