13-year-old Jaden Soong will be competing today to qualify for the U.S. Open. He would be the youngest qualifier ever in U.S. Open history.
KABC reports he’s one of 90 amateurs to compete today for five spots. If he’s feeling any pressure, he’s not letting on.
“I don’t have too many expectations. I am just hoping to go out there and have fun. Just learn from the experience because I’m playing with other really good players,” he said.
His father Chris calls it a great opportunity but doesn’t disagree with his son.
“My expectations are already exceeded. The fact that he is in the sectionals was literally a dream,” Chris Soong said.
It’s golf’s longest day and only 5 spots are available out of 89 players. Excited for the chance to tee it up with great players and thankful for this opportunity. Thank you to everyone that has supported me on this journey. Good luck to all!! @TaylorMadeGolf @Nike @NikeLA pic.twitter.com/lamPlRP7ES
— Jaden R. Soong (@jadenrsoong) June 5, 2023
Fox11 reports his son Jaden is currently in the 7th grade at Thomas Starr King Middle School in Burbank, California.
He doesn’t consider his small stature, 5’2″ and 115 pounds, to be a disadvantage.
In fact, he’s been known to drive the ball 230- 240 yards, according to USA Today.
“It’s pretty cool because golf is one of those sports where (size) really doesn’t matter,” Soong said. “I mean, it definitely does matter, but not as much as like baseball, football, or something. It’s just really how strong mentally you are.”
The U.S. Open will be played June 15- 18 at the Los Angeles Country Club.
AsAmNews is published by the non-profit, Asian American Media Inc. Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to support our efforts to produce diverse content about the AAPI communities. We are supported in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.
