Friday, June 19, 2026Sports Chronicle
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John Daly II's Stunning Rise Leaves Arkansas Coach Calling It His "Most Satisfying" Success

December 22, 2024, Orlando, Florida, USA: John Daly II putts the 18th green during the final round of the PNC Championship at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club. Orlando USA - ZUMAw109 20241222_fap_w109_070 Copyright: xDebbyxWongx

John Daly II is no longer just known as a legend's son, but is a force on the PGA, making a name for himself.

His Tour debut left the golf world, as well as his college coach, speechless. At only 22, he has just begun his career, and the possibilities are endless.

Daly's debut came at the Puerto Rico Open, where he became the first golfer from Arkansas to compete on the PGA Tour. Daly can handle stress, and his debut stunned many as he handled the pressure very well, shifting the narrative away from his famous last name.

Arkansas head coach Brad McMakin has been coaching for 30 years and is a veteran in the sport. In his time, he has watched many players come and go, playing at different skill levels. McMakin stated, "In my 30 years of coaching, this is the most satisfying thing I have ever seen from a player."

Daly's evolution comes full circle with the debut scorecard that begins with an impressive 2-under 70 that included a viral chip-in birdie on hole 16. In the second round, Daly took the lead with an amazing bogey-free 5-under 67.

December 17, 2023, Orlando, Florida, USA: John Daly II tees off the 13th hole during the final round of the 2023 PNC Championship at Ritz-Carlton Golf Club. Orlando USA - ZUMAw109 20231217_fap_w109_106 Copyright: xDebbyxWongx

The University of Arkansas senior did not stop there. On Saturday, he maintained the momentum again with an even-par 70, bringing him to 9-under for 54 holes. A final round bogey on hole 18 kept him close to the lead.

Daly's scorecard demonstrates his improvement, beginning with a consistent 2-under 70 on debut, including a viral chip-in birdie on hole 16. He then surged in the second round by shooting a bogey-free 5-under 67, moving him into the top 10.  

The senior from the University of Arkansas was able to keep the momentum going with an even par 70 on Saturday, moving him to 9-under par after 54 holes. Even with a closing bogey on the 18th hole during the third round, he remains close to the lead.

John Daly Sr.'s Enduring Influence on the Course

Daly's development as a golfer is a hot topic with the media. Recent comparisons to Daly's father still make sense in the context of the comparisons, as Daly still seems to be finding his own style. 

Daly and his father won the 2021 PNC Championship, showcasing a father-son relationship with a perfect blend of mentorship and friendship.

Like father, like son. John Daly II seems to have that unbeatable power that cannot be taught in a simulator, but McMakin disagrees, arguing that younger Daly brings a sense of control that sets him apart.

As the final round approaches, the world of golf is looking forward to seeing John Daly II replicate his father's Sunday Miracles.

Do you think he has what it takes?

Read more at Daily Club Golf!

Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Joyita Das