Manav Shah Makes History as First IGPL Player to Qualify for Major Championship

Manav Shah's Historic Qualification

New Delhi [India] - Manav Shah, an Indian-American golfer, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first player from the AM Green IGPL to qualify for a Major championship since the league's inception in September of last year.

The 33-year-old has demonstrated impressive form this season, securing three Top-7 finishes and a T-11 in his four IGPL appearances. Additionally, he has spent several months competing on both the Asian Development Tour and the Asian Tour.

Shah's accomplishment comes at a time when Indian-origin golfers are making headlines, following Aaron Rai's victory at the PGA Championship. "Competing in a Major is an incredible experience, and my performance at the AM Green IGPL has been fantastic. Now, I am excited to participate in the US Open," Shah expressed.

He achieved rounds of 66 and 71, totaling 7-under par, to finish fourth in the 36-hole final qualifying event at the Dallas Athletic Club, securing his place in the prestigious U.S. Open. Shah concluded the sectional qualifier at 5-under, with scores of 66 and 71, earning one of the coveted spots in the Major championship.

This will mark Shah's first appearance in a Major championship, with the 2026 US Open scheduled to take place at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club.

Born to Indian parents, Shah grew up in Bakersfield, California, where he honed his skills on local public courses before playing collegiate golf for the UCLA Bruins, graduating in 2015 with a degree in Political Science. He has claimed eight professional titles worldwide.

His most notable victory came at the 2022 Quito Open on the PGA Tour Latinoamerica, making him the second Indian-American to win a PGA Tour-sanctioned event, following Arjun Awal's success at the Wyndham Championship in 2010.

Currently competing on the IGPL tour in India, Shah earned full playing status on the Asian Tour through Q-School and recently participated in the International Series. The Dallas qualifier was topped by Peter Uihlein (67-66), with Tom Kim (66-68) finishing second and Cooper Dossey (65-70) in third.

Former US Open champion Graeme McDowell will also return to the Major for the first time since 2020 after successfully qualifying at the Dallas Athletic Club. McDowell, who won the US Open in 2010, was among nine players to qualify for the Shinnecock Hills tournament after shooting 69-69. He previously finished T2 at the 2012 US Open.

PGA Tour winner Tom Kim required final qualifying to secure his fifth US Open appearance, finishing T8 in 2023. While nine golfers celebrated their qualification, notable players like Sergio Garcia faced disappointment, missing out on the Major for the second consecutive year after a long streak of participation.