Gilmore hit the headlines for his kooky name in 2023 after he made a commitment to the university of Ball State.

He even gained the support of the Hollywood actor Sandler, who posted his backing on social media.

Sandler wrote: “Go get em Happy. Pulling for you.”

Ball State golf coach Mike Fleck has also lent his support for Gilmore and has labelled him one of the best in the US.

He said: “The excitement and energy around Happy joining our program is evident.

“We are not only getting an elite junior player, but we are adding a great young man to the mix.

“He has positioned himself as one of the best and most recognisable junior golfers in the country, and has a tournament-tested resume of success both in Indiana and nationally.”

He started going by the name Happy at the age of nine after winning a long-drive contest at the Pepsi Little People’s Tournament in Illinois.

He entered tournaments offically as Happy the following year.

Gilmore is not the only big name that will be aiming to grace the turf at Oakmont.

Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is also taking part.

The 44-year-old retired from the NFL in 2017 and was released at his request by the Cowboys.

He is no stranger to golf having played alongside Tiger Woods as he won the American Century Championship a year after retiring.

Woods has even described Romo as the “best celebrity golfer” he has played with along with former MLB star John Smoltz.

Other American sports stars competing in the qualifying are MLB free agent Aaron Hicks, New York Rangers ace J. T. Miller and Danny Woodhead a former NFL running back.

The qualifying for the US Open will take place across 43 states, Canada and Mexico and conclude on May 19.