John Daly II Impresses in PGA Tour Debut at Puerto Rico Open

The 22-year-old Arkansas senior shot a 2-under 70 in his first PGA Tour start.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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John Daly II, the son of two-time major champion John Daly, made an impressive debut on the PGA Tour at the Puerto Rico Open on Thursday. The 22-year-old Arkansas senior shot a 2-under 70 and sits tied for 21st, which is second among all amateurs in the field. Daly II had four birdies, including a chip-in on the 16th hole, and just two bogeys in his opening round.

Why it matters

Daly II has been playing golf since he was two years old, watching his famous father. This tournament debut marks an important milestone in his budding golf career, as he looks to follow in his dad's footsteps and make a name for himself on the PGA Tour.

The details

Daly II kicked off his round with a birdie on the par-4 first hole and played steady golf throughout the day. The highlight came on the 16th hole when he chipped in for birdie to move to 2-under. After the round, Daly II said he felt he left a few shots out there but was pleased with his performance, channeling his father's nonchalant attitude towards professional golf.

  • Daly II shot a 2-under 70 in the first round on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
  • Daly II has played in several PNC Championships with his father, winning the tournament in 2021 and finishing runner-up on three other occasions.

The players

John Daly II

The 22-year-old son of two-time major champion John Daly, making his PGA Tour debut at the Puerto Rico Open.

John Daly

A two-time major champion and the father of John Daly II, who has played in several PNC Championships with his son.

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What they’re saying

“I started swinging a club when I was two, just watching my dad. So I knew from a young age that I was going to end up playing golf. This was always one of my favorite events to come to as a kid, and now with this being my first start is really special.”

— John Daly II (The Golf Channel)

“Got off to a good start, made a nice birdie on one. Solid up-and-down on two, made about a 20-footer for par, which is nice, settled me in. And then just hit some good shots. Feel like I left a few out there, but I made it up with just a couple good saves and nice chip-in on 16.”

— John Daly II (Post-round press conference)

“I would say I'd go hit balls, but I'm a little tired, so I'm just probably going to go to the beach and do absolutely nothing for the rest of the day.”

— John Daly II (Post-round press conference)

What’s next

Daly II will look to build on his strong opening round performance as he continues his PGA Tour debut on Friday.

The takeaway

John Daly II's impressive PGA Tour debut showcases the potential of the next generation of the Daly golfing dynasty, as he looks to carve out his own path in the sport while drawing inspiration from his legendary father's career.