Jose Luis Ballester Wins U.S. Amateur Championship

Jose Luis Ballester, a senior-to-be at Arizona State, made history by becoming the first Spaniard to win the U.S. Amateur Championship, defeating Iowa sophomore Noah Kent 2 up on his 21st birthday at Hazeltine. Ballester, who was the only top 10 amateur to reach the round of 16, took an early lead and maintained control throughout, ultimately celebrating with the Havemeyer Trophy. Both finalists secured exemptions for next year's Masters and U.S. Open, with Ballester also qualifying for The Open Championship. Kent, ranked No. 560 in the world, fought back in the final match, narrowing a four-hole deficit but ultimately falling short. The victory further solidifies Ballester's place among Spain's golfing legends, joining Jon Rahm as the only Spaniards to win a USGA event. His triumph not only marks a personal milestone but also elevates Spain's presence in the world of amateur golf.