June 13, 2025
Winning a state championship is a milestone most golfers dream of. Winning two — at the highest levels of both amateur and professional state competition — is a legacy-defining accomplishment. On Thursday at Sacconnesset Golf Club, 27-year-old Steven DiLisio carved his name into Massachusetts golf history by claiming the 115th Massachusetts Open title, six years after hoisting the Massachusetts Amateur trophy.
The Swampscott native and former Duke standout became just the eighth golfer in the state’s history to win both championships, joining a prestigious group that includes Francis Ouimet and Fran Quinn. This win was also DiLisio’s first as a professional.
A Putt for the Ages
The tournament came down to a breathtaking 50-foot putt on the 16th hole. With the sun setting and co-leader Xavier Marcoux watching from across the water, DiLisio left the flagstick in and drained the long, curling putt to take the lead for good.
"I kind of kept telling myself they were going to fall. Then they did," said DiLisio, whose putter had been teasing all week but came alive at just the right moment.
From Brookline to Falmouth
DiLisio first made his mark in 2019, winning the Massachusetts Amateur at The Country Club in Brookline. This week, despite weather delays and a tough field, he stayed composed over 54 holes to shoot 69-73-69—211 (-5) and clinch the title.
A Rare Feat
DiLisio now joins an elite list of just eight players to win both the Mass Amateur and Mass Open:
- Francis Ouimet
- Jesse Guilford
- Charles Volpone
- Jim Hallet
- Kevin Johnson
- Fran Quinn
- Rob Oppenheim
- Steven DiLisio
"It's a cool honor, joining some pretty special names,” DiLisio said. “Kind of just taking it all in right now."
Looking Ahead
DiLisio’s win cements his reputation as one of the most accomplished players in the state and offers a springboard for his professional journey. With grit, patience, and a clutch short game, he proved he belongs in the conversation with the state's best.