Cowan's U.S. Amateur Victory

A Birdie That Launched Cowan's Entire Day

Cowan entered the day needing to fight just to get into match play. He was one of 16 players competing for 11 remaining spots in the bracket. He made birdie on the first playoff hole and advanced right away, according to Newsday. There was no break after that — Cowan went straight into his first-round match against Russell.

The match stayed tight all the way to the 17th hole. Cowan's chip-in for par put him in control. When Russell could not sink the 10-footer to keep the match alive, Cowan won 1-up, according to Las Vegas Sun.

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Top Qualifier Joshua Ryan Upset in 19 Holes

Not everyone had Cowan's luck. Joshua Ryan, who earned medalist honors by leading all players in 36-hole qualifying, was knocked out early. Japan's Taishi Moto beat him in 19 holes, according to BDT Online. It was a stunning early exit for the top qualifier of the entire field.

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Cowan Ranked No. 8 in the World Entering Merion

Cowan is no stranger to big stages. He is currently ranked No. 8 in the world in amateur golf. Earlier this summer, he shared low amateur honors at the U.S. Open with Jackson Koivun, according to Winnipeg Free Press.

Now at Merion, Cowan has cleared his toughest early hurdle — surviving qualifying and winning his first match on the same day. He will look to keep building as the bracket moves forward.

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