20-year-old Shubham is the first Indian to win an individual collegiate title
20-year-old Shubham Jaglan of Delhi Golf Club has etched his name in history as the first Indian golfer to secure an individual title in an NCAA Division I Men’s College Golf Tournament, yet again proving why the label of ‘child-prodigy’ has been rightly attributed to him in the past.
A final-year student at the University of South Florida (USF), Shubham clinched the Linger Longer Invitational, held from March 16-18 at Great Waters Golf Course in Greensboro, Georgia. The tournament featured a competitive 16-team field, including five college teams ranked inside the top 50 nationally.
Shubham set the pace early with an opening-round 64 (-8), marking his career-best round. He followed up with scores of 68 and 72 to post a 54-hole total of 204 (-12), the best of his collegiate career.
Reacting to his achievement, Jaglan stated, “Took me every bit of four years, but it was worth the wait. Excited to keep it going with the team and finish my college career strongly.”
His win was instrumental in USF’s strong team performance, as the Bulls recorded their best finish of the spring season, securing third place at 21-under par. This result provides significant momentum as they prepare for the American Athletic Conference (AAC) Championships, where they aim to defend their title. Currently ranked No. 35, the Bulls will compete in two more tournaments before heading to Sarasota, Florida for the Conference Championship.
Jaglan’s individual success adds to an already impressive college career. He recently became the all-time leader in eagles for USF’s men’s golf program, registering 19 during his tenure. With three top-25 finishes this season, he has been a consistent performer and a key figure in the team’s lineup.
The Linger Longer Invitational has historically been a stepping stone for PGA TOUR professionals. Past participants include Major Champions Justin Thomas (Alabama, 2009), Rickie Fowler (Oklahoma State, 2009), Scottie Scheffler (Texas, 2015), and recent sensation Nick Dunlap (Alabama, 2023). Jaglan’s victory places him in elite company and marks a significant milestone for Indian golf at the collegiate level.
USF’s next stop is the Valspar Collegiate Invitational in Stuart, Florida, from March 24-25, hosted by the University of Houston.
