US Open star who slept in his car for year and a half now in contention at golf major

Willie Mack III: A Golfer’s Journey from Homelessness to the US Open

Willie Mack III is on the cusp of making the cut at the US Open this weekend at Pinehurst No. 2, a remarkable achievement given his unconventional journey to this prestigious stage.

Turning professional in 2011, Mack III’s path to the US Open has been far from smooth. The 35-year-old golfer, competing alongside stars like Rory McIlroy, Tony Finau, Bryson DeChambeau, and Brooks Koepka, has faced numerous challenges on his way to prominence in the sport. His story is a testament to perseverance and dedication.

Mack III, born and raised in Flint, Michigan, was introduced to golf at the age of six by his father. He went on to complete his education at Bethune-Cookman University before turning professional. However, his initial years as a professional golfer were tough. Struggling financially, he spent 18 months living in his Ford Mustang while competing in tournaments.

Reflecting on this period in an interview with Golf.com, Mack III shared, “When I first turned pro, I won the money list on the Florida Pro Tour. I was playing well and nearly made it to the PGA Tour through Q-School, missing the final stage by just two strokes. After that, things started to go downhill. Money was tight, and without sponsors, it became difficult to make ends meet. I was living out of my car and kept it a secret out of embarrassment. I’d arrive early at tournaments to shower at the course. Despite some good finishes, I still slept in the car because that was all I had. I practiced more to avoid going back to the car, walking around malls to pass the time.”

Mack III’s father, Willie Mack II, has been vocal about his son’s struggles and determination. In November 2022, he praised his son’s relentless pursuit of his dream despite the significant challenges. “He’s had a journey sleeping in his car for a year and a half,” his father said. “We put our house in foreclosure twice to support him. But when your child is doing something positive and pursuing their dreams, you make those sacrifices. I’ve always told him to never give up if he believes in something, and he hasn’t.”

Currently, Mack III is holding his own at Pinehurst No. 2, tied for 34th place with a score of plus 1, alongside notable golfers like Scottie Scheffler, Jason Day, and Rickie Fowler. If he makes the top 60 cut, he stands a chance to win the championship and a significant prize of £3.4 million.

Willie Mack III’s journey from living in his car to competing in the US Open is an inspiring story of resilience and unyielding dedication to his passion for golf.