Auburn golf star on precipice of earning PGA Tour Card
Auburn star Jackson Koivun got one step closer to a coveted PGA Tour Card last weekend. The sophomore, who has helped the Tigers earn back the No. 1 ranking with his play this season, made the cut at the 'Arnold Palmer Invitational', putting him one point away from earning a tour card.
Koivun made the cut by shooting an even par over the first two days of the tournament, but failed to finish in the top 10 after a rough final two days against a field consisting of mostly seasoned PGA veterans. By making the cut, Auburn's top golfer secured his 19th point in the PGA TOUR University Accelerated program. Once he reaches 20, he will earn a card.
Only two student athletes have ever achieved the elusive 20 points needed to gain access to most events on the tour. Florida State's Luke Clanton accumulated his 20th point earlier in the month, while Vanderbilt golfer, and Alabama native, Gordon Sargent was the first to ever accomplish the feat.
Both golfers are upper-classmen and expected to turn professional after the season, while Koivun would be the first under-classmen to ever be faced with a decision whether to turn pro or stay in school. The 19-year-old has previously stated he'd like to stay at Auburn, although his thoughts could always change once turning professional becomes a realistic option.
Until then, the reigning SEC Golfer of the Year will continue helping his Tiger teammates attempt to earn back-to-back National Championships. His next chance to earn a PGA Tour Card could come as early as the end of March.
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This article originally appeared on Auburn Wire: Auburn golf star on precipice of earning PGA Tour Card
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