Luke Clanton receives the McCormack Medal as the world’s top ranked amateur

Luke Clanton, a 20-year-old golfer from Hialeah, Florida, has been honored with the 2024 McCormack Medal, recognizing him as the leading male in the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR). This prestigious award, co-presented by The R&A and the USGA, highlights Clanton’s outstanding performance over the past year, affirming his status as one of amateur golf’s brightest talents. 

The McCormack Medal not only celebrates Luke Clanton’s impressive achievements but also grants him significant opportunities. As the recipient, Clanton will receive exemptions to compete in the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club and The Open Championship at Royal Portrush. These exemptions are a testament to his exceptional skill and potential in the sport.

Luke Clanton: A Year of Remarkable Performances

Luke Clanton’s ascent to the top of the WAGR standings is marked by several noteworthy accomplishments. His recent success at the U.S. Amateur, held at Hazeltine National Golf Club, solidified his position as the world’s top amateur.

Clanton’s notable performances during the summer included becoming the first amateur since 1958 to record consecutive top-10 finishes on the PGA Tour. He finished T-10 in the 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic, was runner-up at the John Deere Classic, and most recently secured a solo fifth place at the Wyndham Championship in North Carolina.

In addition to his achievements on the PGA Tour, Clanton made a significant impact in collegiate golf. As a standout player for Florida State University, he finished fifth in both the Atlantic Coast Conference Championship and the NCAA Stanford Regional.

His performance led the Seminoles to the NCAA Championship, where they fell to Auburn in the final. Clanton also shared runner-up honors in the NCAA Division I Championship at the Omni La Costa Resort’s North Course, narrowly missing the top spot.

Luke Clanton’s impressive performance at the U.S. Open at Pinehurst was another highlight. He became the first amateur in the tournament’s history to record consecutive rounds in the 60s, finishing T-41. His ability to perform consistently at a high level has earned him widespread recognition and respect in the golf community.

Reflecting on his recent achievement, Luke Clanton expressed his gratitude and excitement:

“Winning the McCormack Medal is an honor I will cherish forever,” Clanton said. “This award represents not just my efforts, but also the incredible family support I have. This will inspire me to keep pushing boundaries and to pursue my dreams with even greater determination. I’m proud to join the ranks of those who have achieved this distinction.”

The McCormack Medal is named after Mark H. McCormack, the founder of IMG and a strong supporter of amateur golf. The award has a storied history, recognizing the top amateur golfer each year. Previous winners have gone on to achieve significant success in professional golf, and Luke Clanton’s future in the sport looks promising.

The recognition of Luke Clanton’s achievements has been met with praise from prominent figures in the golf world. USGA Chief Championships Officer John Bodenhamer commended Clanton for his outstanding performances and expressed enthusiasm about his future:

“Luke has proven that he is a future star in the game, and we’re thrilled to see him accept this honor and reap the benefits that come with such special recognition,” Bodenhamer said. “To perform consistently at such a high level reflects the hard work and dedication that Luke has applied as an elite amateur golfer. We look forward to seeing his career continue to prosper in the years ahead.”

As Luke Clanton looks ahead, he remains focused on his goals. He is expected to continue his strong performance in collegiate and amateur golf while preparing for his transition to professional golf. With his impressive track record and the benefits of the McCormack Medal, Clanton is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the sport’s professional ranks.

Luke Clanton’s receipt of the 2024 McCormack Medal marks a significant milestone in his career. His remarkable achievements and the opportunities that come with this award highlight his potential as a future star in golf. As he prepares for the next chapter of his career, Clanton’s journey will be closely watched by the golf community and fans alike.