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Rory McIlroy could be target of US Amateur champion’s Masters prank after 2016 fan moment

Originally posted on HITC | By Charlie Walker | Last updated Oct 28, 2025 4:09 PM ET

After claiming the 2025 US Amateur title, Mason Howell secured spots in next year’s Masters, US Open, and Open Championship.

Howell, now 18, has a huge year ahead. He made his US Open debut at Oakmont last season and is now preparing to tee it up in the three biggest events on the calendar.

There have been some impressive amateur showings at majors over the years. Sam Bennett’s T16 finish at Augusta in 2023 comes to mind. But these tournaments are not just about results – they are also about the chance to learn from those who have already made it.

For instance, Neal Shipley’s time with Tiger Woods was a key moment in his rise, and Howell could get a similar experience if he is paired with Rory McIlroy, another player who has inspired him since he was young.

The Northern Irishman has been one of his idols for years, and Howell even has something planned for when they meet on the course.

Mason Howell has a joke planned for childhood hero Rory McIlroy at The Masters

Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images

With McIlroy expected to be paired with the US Amateur champion as defending champion, it would be a match-up that would be something of a dream come true for Howell.

Howell recently discussed an encounter with McIlroy from nine years prior, an interaction he recalled on The Smylie Show.

“I’m super pumped. Not sure how many times I’m going to be able to play it before, but I’m going to try to play it as many times as I can,” he said.

“I’m super grateful for that opportunity and to play in another US Open, it’s going to be super special. I kind of know what to expect now.

“I think we’ll be paired with Rory if they keep the trend up. Actually, in the Tour Championship in 2016 in Atlanta, I went as a fan, and on Sunday, on hole four, he flipped me one of his Nike golf balls, and it says ‘Rors’ on the side.

The summer of Mason Howell:

• Shot 63-63 to qualify for the U.S. Open at Oakmont
• Medalist at the U.S. Junior Amateur
• U.S. Amateur champion
• Unbeaten at the Walker Cup

What will the high schooler do next? pic.twitter.com/hQZDKtMjaV
— USGA (@USGA) September 19, 2025

“I still have it in my room. I kept it, and I might have to play a little joke on him.”

Since Howell kept the details under wraps, fans will have to wait to find out what the joke actually is.

Mason Howell at the 2025 US Open

Howell may be making his debut at Augusta National, but he has already experienced life inside the ropes. He earned his spot in the 2025 US Open after posting consecutive rounds of 63 in his final qualifier.

Oakmont then provided one of the most demanding tests in recent memory, with J.J. Spaun finishing as the only player under par.

Howell carded a 13-over total, finishing ahead of Shane Lowry and just one shot behind Justin Thomas. It was also an event where both Tommy Fleetwood and Bryson DeChambeau missed the cut, so Howell’s performance held up well under those conditions.

He posted a 77 on day one before improving to a 76 in round two. The experience should serve him well as he prepares for what Augusta has to offer.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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