Max Homa Carries Own Bag, Fails U.S. Open Qualifier Spot

Max Homa, a six-time PGA Tour winner, failed to qualify for the 2025 U.S. Open after carrying his own bag for 38 holes during the final qualifier at Kinsale Golf Club in Ohio. Homa recently parted ways with his caddie of two months, Bill Harke, though he declined to discuss the reasons behind the split, stating he preferred to focus on his golf. Despite a strong start, Homa gave away shots late in the rounds and ultimately lost in a playoff to Cameron Young, who secured the final qualifying spot. Homa reflected that carrying his bag alone was both physically tiring and mentally challenging but seemed to provide a sense of peace and self-reliance. Once ranked as high as sixth in the world, Homa's ranking has dropped to 90th amid struggles and significant changes to his game, including new coaching and equipment. The qualifier awarded six spots to the U.S. Open at Oakmont, Pennsylvania, which Homa will miss, marking a setback in his career resurgence efforts.