14-year-old Jesse Linden showed up to the NSW Open, knowing it would be a special week. After just missing out in the playoff during the pre-qualifying event on Monday, Linden’s start came courtesy of a tournament invite.
With his crowd of supporters following his every move, he has been making the most of this opportunity by making the cut at his home course and now sits at 10 over par after three rounds.
“Pretty excited going into today,” Linden smiled.
“The experience was amazing, and the crowds were going.”
For someone who is barely in high school, Linden has been playing this week like a seasoned golfer. From striping balls off the tee to attacking pins, Linden has been impressing those watching him.
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Despite all this, his game plan has stayed surprisingly simple.
“Try and play smart, aggressive golf and hit fairways and greens,” Linden said. “Try roll some putts in.”
Even with the growing attention as a home crowd favourite, he has been able to stay composed.
“I’m just trying to focus on my game and see where it goes,” he said.
One of the highlights of his week came early on when he played a practice round with 2024 NSW Open Champion Lucas Herbert.
The advice that Herbert gave to Linden was simple, but meaningful.
“Just stay focused, play your game and have fun.”
The earlier conversations Linden had with Herbert have proven useful for a golfer who dreams of playing on tour one day.
“I would love to get to that stage,” he said. “It’d be pretty incredible.”
As for now, the 14-year-old prodigy is taking it hole by hole, soaking in a moment that most of his peers only dream about. Tomorrow, he tees it up again at his home club, playing in the weekend of his home state open.
And for Jesse Linden, this is only the beginning of his career.
Ford NSW Open LIVE
Saturday 15 November
Sunday, 16 November
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
