Matt Vogt
, a 34-year-old dentist from Indianapolis, is living the dream by competing in the 125th
US Open
at
Oakmont Country Club
. What’s remarkable is that Vogt knows the course well, having worked as a caddie there and played on Mondays. His previous experience includes the 2021 US Amateur at Oakmont, giving him a unique edge in this challenging tournament.
Despite playing golf for only nine months at
Butler University
before focusing on dentistry, Vogt never gave up his passion. With a dental practice in Indianapolis and a young daughter, he still practices at least five days a week. His strategic decision to qualify through an event with fewer professionals in Walla Walla led him to the
US Open
.
The
US Open
holds a special place for
Vogt
, who became emotional remembering his recently deceased father and the support he always provided. Matt expressed his gratitude towards Oakmont: “I’m very thankful to Oakmont. One of its prominent members provided me and many of the caddies with a scholarship to help us with college.”
Since qualifying, Vogt has been overwhelmed but thrilled with the experience, including press conferences. He acknowledged it was hard not to get emotional, saying: “This place means a lot to me. The members are incredible. Stanley Druckenmiller, a prominent member, provided me and many of the caddies with a scholarship to help us with college. So I’m indebted to this place and very grateful. Truly, very grateful.”
Although the course has changed, with much taller rough, what Vogt has enjoyed most is interacting with the young fans. Signing autographs has been a rewarding experience for him: “The best part is seeing the kids out there. I want to make a good impression on them, it’s been great signing my first autograph.”
Matt Vogt
reflects on the interest his story generates, attributing it to the inspiration it can offer. His main goal at the
US Open
, besides playing well, is to motivate others: “One of my goals in doing all this this week is to inspire people, to let them know it’s never too late to try something in life that you think is great and want to do, even if others think it’s silly.”
*Statements given at a press conference.
