(June 8, 2026) – It was certainly a notable professional debut for Ben James. Playing in 126th U.S. Open Final Qualifying, James punched his ticket to his third straight U.S. Open after qualifying the past two years at Canoe Brook Country Club.
After a morning round of 4-under 68 that included five birdies at the Golf Club of Purchase, James started his round at Century Country Club with two birdies early on Nos. 11 and 15 (after starting on 10). He fought through four bogeys to finish at 2-over for the afternoon but still at 2-under for 36 holes.
It was a day of redemption for James, who just missed out on qualifying from the Purchase site in 2022.
“I left here three years ago with a sour taste, losing in a playoff,” he said. “But I knew what to expect. Been playing a lot of golf. It was just a great day overall. It was a hard day and I made a great five and a half footer that I’ll probably dream about tonight.”
James, the 2019 Connecticut Junior Amateur winner, recently graduated from the University of Virginia and ended his collegiate career finishing number one in the PGA Tour University Class of 2026.
Up next, James will compete in the 126th U.S. Open from June 18-21 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club.
Editor’s Note: Content and photo courtesy of the Metropolitan Golf Association
About the Connecticut State Golf Association
The Connecticut State Golf Association functions as an extension of the USGA and provides stewardship for amateur golf in Connecticut. Founded in 1899, it is the country’s oldest state golf association and conducts over 60 Championships, Qualifiers, and One Day Tournaments throughout the year.
