Matthew McClean’s victory at the 2022 U.S. Mid-Amateur tournament was a significant accomplishment, especially considering he was playing in his first USGA event. McClean, a golfer from Northern Ireland, along with his roommate and friend Hugh Foley from the Republic of Ireland, dominated the field to meet in the 36-hole final at Erin Hills. This was only the second time in over 40 years that the Mid-Amateur event had a champion from outside the United States.
The Mid-Amateur tournament, established in 1981 for elite post-college amateurs aged 25 and older, is a highly exclusive and competitive circuit in the U.S. McClean, not being familiar with the tournament, had initially entered seeking a fun experience in a new and unfamiliar setting. However, the level of competition and tension was much higher than what he was accustomed to back home in Ireland and the United Kingdom.
McClean’s journey to the U.S. Mid-Am began when a friend, Marc Boucher, suggested he should compete in the tournament. Despite a lack of awareness about the event, McClean’s strong World Amateur Golf Ranking exempted him from qualifying, giving him the opportunity to compete against some of the best amateur golfers in the world. His win at the Mid-Am in 2022 propelled his amateur golf career to new heights, leading to appearances at prestigious events such as the Jones Cup, Azalea Invitational, and the Walker Cup.
In the following years, McClean continued to participate in prominent amateur golf tournaments across the United States, including the Masters and the U.S. Open. His amateur golf career has allowed him to see and experience various parts of America, playing on world-class golf courses and meeting golfers from diverse backgrounds. McClean’s passion for team golf led him to compete in events like the Walker Cup and the upcoming Bridges Cup, where he will represent the International squad in a Ryder Cup-style competition against the U.S.
As an optometrist from Belfast, McClean’s dedication to golf despite his day job showcases his commitment and passion for the sport. The opportunities and experiences he has gained through amateur golf have been rewarding, allowing him to improve his skills, connect with fellow golfers, and compete on a global stage. McClean’s journey from relative anonymity to becoming a notable figure in amateur golf is a testament to his talent and perseverance in the sport.
