John Daly II has spent his entire life in the shadow of one of golf's most eccentric and beloved major champions. Yet, the younger Daly—widely known as Little John—has carved out his own serious reputation through standout amateur victories, collegiate success at the University of Arkansas, and high-profile professional appearances.
Born on July 23, 2003, in Clearwater, Florida, John Daly II is the son of two-time major champion John Daly and his fourth wife, Sherrie Miller. Growing up surrounded by professional golf, he didn't just inherit his father's powerful swing and distinctive tempo; he developed a disciplined work ethic that propelled him through elite junior circuits and into the collegiate ranks.
Early Life and Junior Golf Success
Golf was an inescapable presence during his childhood. While his father traveled the world competing on the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions, Little John spent countless hours on practice facilities across Florida. He attended Montverde Academy and Bishop's Gate Golf Academy, where he honed his competitive tournament skills.
During his junior golf years, he built an impressive resume on the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) circuit. Notable early performances included winning the Sung Hyun Park Junior Championship and securing top finishes at the Justin Thomas Junior Championship and the Dustin Johnson World Junior. These foundational years prepared him for the intense scrutiny that follows any child of a sports legend. Rather than shying away from the comparisons, he embraced his family's golfing identity while establishing his own composure on the course.
Collegiate Career at Arkansas
Following in his father's footsteps, Daly committed to the University of Arkansas, joining the Razorbacks men's golf team. Playing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) provided the weekly pressure cooker needed to test his game against the nation's best collegiate players.
During his tenure in Fayetteville, he captured individual titles, including the Columbia Spring Invitational and the Blessings Collegiate Invitational. He consistently ranked among the team's lowest scoring averages, earned SEC Golfer of the Week honors, and landed multiple selections on the SEC Academic Honor Roll. Beyond stroke-play victories, he also proved his match-play mettle by reaching the quarterfinals of the U.S. Amateur and winning the prestigious Southern Amateur.
Partnership with His Father at the PNC Championship
For casual sports fans, the most visible chapter of his career unfolds every December at the PNC Championship. Partnering with his father, John Daly II became a fan favorite in the parent-child scramble format.
Their chemistry peaked in 2021 when the duo captured the championship trophy with a historic, event-record score of 27-under par, famously holding off Tiger Woods and his son, Charlie Woods. In addition to their victory, the pair finished as tournament runners-up in multiple years, showcasing an effortless blend of the elder Daly's explosive shot-making and the younger Daly's steady, modern swing mechanics.
Transition to Professional Golf
After completing his collegiate journey, Daly officially transitioned to the professional ranks. Prior to turning pro, he gained valuable experience through sponsor exemptions into professional events.
He made a notable appearance on the PGA Tour at the Puerto Rico Open, where he fired a solid second-round 67 to comfortably make the cut. He has since continued testing his game across developmental circuits and international tours, focusing on building status and securing regular playing opportunities. His early NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) partnerships with major brands like TaylorMade and Hooters during his amateur days helped bridge the gap into the commercial side of professional sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is John Daly II?
John Daly II was born on July 23, 2003.
Did John Daly II play college golf?
Yes, he played collegiate golf for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks, where he won multiple collegiate tournaments and earned academic honors before turning professional.
Has John Daly II won any professional golf tournaments?
While he won the PNC Championship alongside his father as an amateur, he competes on professional tours following his transition to the professional ranks.
Does John Daly II look like his father?
Beyond physical resemblance, he shares a powerful swing style, though coaches and analysts often note that his overall tempo and course management reflect a more modern, disciplined approach to competitive golf.
