"The 34-year-old dentist who never gave up"...play in the U.S. Open

"The 34-year-old dentist who never gave up"...play in the U.S. Open

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As a student who liked math and science, he quit the college golf team. Later, he became a dentist and opened a hospital. Then, in 2025, he finally acquired the right to play at the U.S. Open, his dream stage. This is the story of Matt Vogt, a 34-year-old dentist based in Indiana. CNN introduced him on Wednesday, saying that his story of passing the preliminary round of the U.S. Open, which is called the longest day in the world, is more than just a story of golf.온라인바카라

The U.S. Open regional qualifying round is held annually by thousands of amateur and professional golfers for a 36-hole marathon. It is called the "longest and fiercest day" in which players compete for the right to participate. With star players such as Ricky Fowler (second runner-up in 2014) and Max Homa (six wins in the tour) eliminated this year, an unknown dentist who ranked 2078th in the world's amateur rankings became the hero.

Born near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Vogt worked as a caddie for six years at Oakmont Country Club, where he became acquainted with golf. The venue for this year's U.S. Open is not just a venue for him. "It's great wherever it's held in America, but it's special to me to be held in Oakmont," he said, crying, "This city, this course, means so much to me in my life."

He shot 68 consecutive times in the final qualifying round in Washington, winning one of only two tickets. It was a feat he had no intention of becoming a professional player in his life, and he left the team to concentrate on his studies after a short stint on the Butler University golf team in college. "Since high school, I have had a clear goal of 'majoring biology and becoming a dentist,'" he said. "A job that communicates with people and helps people directly is the right way for me."

Even after opening his own dental clinic in Indiana in 2018, he stopped by the club on weekends and improved his skills by doing medical treatment, childcare and training. "I regretted not doing my best in golf before, but now I'm making up for that regret as I have some time," he said. "Of course, I'm still an amateur, and I have to see patients again the week after the U.S. Open."

Vogt's participation in the U.S. Open is not just a journey full of joy. He had just two months earlier let go of his biggest benefactor and mentor, Dad, for colorectal cancer. "He was the one who gave me the strength to be here," he said. "After losing him, I feel like a real adult. I pray every night for those who suffer from cancer."

The final round of the U.S. Open will be held in time for Father's Day in the U.S. "It will definitely be an emotionally challenging weekend. Despite the sadness of losing my father, my 15-month-old daughter and a strong wife are by my side," Vogt said. "This weekend will be a time filled with gratitude, and it would be even better if I play well."

He finished the interview with resonant words.

"Don't think it's too late, if you have a career or a family, or if you feel you matter even if it seems crazy to people, then you have to move on. I'm proving it myself."