Golf: Manav Shah Set For U.S. Open Debut

NEW DELHI- California-born golfer Manav Shah, whose family hails from Gujarat, will make history when he tees off at Shinnecock Hills on June 18 for the U.S. Open, becoming the first player associated with the Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) to compete in a Major championship.

Shah will be one of five Indian-origin golfers in the field at one of golf’s most prestigious events. The lineup also includes Indo-British golfer Aaron Rai, PGA Tour winners Akshay Bhatia and Sahith Theegala, and Indo-Canadian golfer Sudarshan Yellamaraju.

Born to Indian immigrant parents, Shah grew up in California while maintaining close ties to his Indian heritage. His father is from Gujarat and his mother from Mumbai, and Gujarati was spoken at home.

Shah turned professional in 2015 and has competed across several North American professional tours. He later strengthened his ties with India through the Asian Tour and the Indian Golf Premier League, which was launched in 2025 to create opportunities for Indian and Indian-origin golfers worldwide.

“India is very much home to me and it’s amazing to be able to represent my culture at the U.S. Open,” Shah said.

He earned his place in the U.S. Open through the tournament’s demanding qualifying process, shooting a 68 at Pasatiempo Golf Club before posting a five-under-par 137 at Dallas Athletic Club to secure one of nine qualifying spots.

His qualification marks a milestone for the Indian Golf Premier League, which has never before had a player compete in a Major championship. (IANS)