Name:
Matthew McClean
Age:
29
Birthplace:
Belfast
Read more: Rory McIlroy Masters pairings and tee time for day one announced
Club:
Malone Golf Club
Swing:
Right
Occupation:
Optometrist
Caddie:
Lisburn-man and lifelong friend, Stephen Gracey
First round tee time and playing partners:
13:12 (UK time), Scott Stallings and Vijay Singh
Odds to win: 2500/1
Background:
In 2022, Matt finished runner-up in both the North of Ireland and Irish Amateur Opens, represented Ireland in the Eisenhower Trophy in France and reached the Round of 16 in The Amateur Championship at Royal Lytham and St Annes in England. He has said that his main goal for 2023 is to represent Great Britain & Ireland in the Walker Cup at St Andrews.
Matt studied at the University of Ulster, Coleraine, and spent his free time practising at Royal Portrush Golf Club.
Masters Qualification:
Matt won the 2022 U.S. Mid-Amateur at Erin Hills in Wisconsin with a 3-and-1 victory over good friend Hugh Foley in the final. With the victory, the 29-year-old optometrist earned places in the field for both the Masters and the U.S. Open this year.
Flash Quote:
“There’s no real way to prepare for this; you just have to throw yourself in and see what happens. It’s going to be an amazing experience no matter what. I need to try and be as laid back as possible and enjoy it. I don’t even think you dream about playing in the Masters, it seems that far off. The Open always felt more attainable, you can go through local qualifying, so that was always the thing in my mind. This wasn’t even a dream.”
Fun fact:
While working as an optometrist in Sunderland Matt was called up to represent Northumbria County Golf Team, where he once faced off against Newcastle United legend and keen golfer Alan Shearer!
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