Watch highlights from Razorback senior John Daly II’s thrilling journey at the 2025 USGA U.S. Amateur Championship on the iconic Olympic Club – Lake Course in San Francisco.
Daly II made history by winning two intense matches: coming from behind to defeat Nate Smith 2&1 in the Round of 32, then securing a convincing 3&2 win over World Amateur Golf #27 Daniel Bennett in the Round of 16. These victories put him in the quarterfinals, making him the first Razorback to advance so far since David Lingmerth in 2009.
Follow Daly’s clutch birdies, strategic comebacks, and relentless drive as he prepares to face Mason Howell for a spot in the semifinals. Dive into the excitement of elite amateur golf and the rise of John Daly II!
In a stunning display of skill and determination, John Daly II has made headlines by winning two matches in a row, propelling himself into the quarterfinals of the prestigious US Amateur Championship. This exciting event is taking place at the renowned Olympic Club Lake Course in San Francisco, and Dy’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The Razerback senior triumphed over Nate Smith with a score of 2 and one in the round of 32, followed by a convincing 32 victory against Daniel Bennett in the round of 16. With these wins, Daly has etched his name in the history books as the first Razerback to reach the US Amateur quarterfinals since David Lingmirth did so in 2009. Lingur’s journey ended in the quarterfinals when he lost to the eventual runnerup, Ben Martin, by a score of 2 and one. In his morning match against Smith, Daly showcased his resilience. However, Smith responded strongly, winning both the fourth and sixth holes to establish a two up advantage. But Daly wasn’t deterred. He turned the tide by winning holes 8, 10, and 12. Taking a one-up lead, Smith managed to tie the match again by winning the 14th hole with a par, but Daly surged ahead once more, birdieing the 15th and 16th holes to secure a two up lead. The two players both birdied the par 517th hole. But that was all Daly needed to clinch the match. Later that same day, Daly faced off against Daniel Bennett, a sophomore from Texas, who was not only the reigning national freshman of the year, but also ranked number 27 in the World Amateur golf ranking. Daly started strong, winning the first hole with a par and extending his lead to four up by winning holes five, seven, and nine. Bennett attempted to rally, cutting his deficit to three with a birdie on the 10th hole. However, Daly regained control by winning the 14th hole with a par, while Bennett managed to win the 13th hole, leaving Daly with a three-up lead and just five holes remaining. The two players then tied on holes 14, 15, and 16, which was sufficient for Daly to secure his victory. For those interested in following the Arkansas men’s golf team, you can find more updates on their official X account at httpsx.com/razerbackmolf and on Instagram at https.www.instagram.com/razerbackm. But here’s where it gets controversial. Can Daly maintain this momentum against Mason Howell in the quarterfinals? As he prepares for this crucial match, many are left wondering if he can continue his impressive performance or if the pressure will prove too much. What do you think? Will Daly advance further or is this the peak of his journey? Share your thoughts in the comments.
