Sami Valimaki secures his first PGA TOUR victory at The RSM Classic, becoming the first Finnish player to win on tour! Relive the thrilling final round at Sea Island, including Valimaki’s clutch putts and the intense battle for FedExCup Top 100 spots.
Max McGreevy’s incredible birdie and Ricky Castillo’s near miss added to the drama. Plus, see Sam Stevens’ amazing hole-in-one! We break down who secured their tour cards and who’s on the bubble for the Masters.
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Get ready for an emotional roller coaster as we dive into the thrilling finale of the ISM classic. Sami Valamaki, a Finnish golf sensation, has just claimed his first PGA Tour title. But the real drama unfolded in the battle to secure playing cards for the upcoming season. In a hearttoppping finish, Valamaki, known for his impressive runner-up finishes, sealed the deal with a remarkable four under 66. But here’s where it gets controversial. The top 100 players in the FedEx Cup standings, now reduced from 125, will enjoy full PGA Tour cards for the 2026 season. And the competition was fierce. The battle for the top 100. Ricky Castillo’s incredible front nine, shooting 28, had everyone believing he’d make it into the top 100. However, Max McGrevy had other plans. sinking a 30-foot birdie putt on the final hole which pushed Castillo down to a heartbreaking number 102. Lee Hodges just outside the top 100 had a chance to move up with a 10-ft birdie attempt but it narrowly missed leaving him at number 101. The tension was palpable as players fates hung in the balance. The impact of Valamaris victory. Valeris win not only secured his PGA Tour card, but also granted him a two-year exemption and a spot in the prestigious $20 million signature events of 2026. He reflected on his journey, saying, “It’s been a challenging year, but finding my groove in the final tournaments feels incredible.” McGrevy, already cardlocked, moved up to number 60, qualifying for a pair of signature events. His finish pushed Jordan Spyth out of the top 60, meaning Spyth will need sponsor exemptions for Pebble Beach and Riviera. Freedom and focus. McGrevy attributed his success to playing with freedom knowing his card was secure. I never felt nervous. I was focused on winning. My best golf came out at the perfect time. Niko Echavaria’s 65 tied him for fourth, earning him a spot in the number 51 to 60 slot for signature events on the West Coast. Sam Stevens, who made a hole in one on the third hole, was already set for all signature events. His focus now shifts to maintaining his world ranking at number 48 to secure a master’s spot. The year- end rush. As the year draws to a close, the race for the top 50 in the world ranking is intense. Johnny Kefir, the Cornferry Tour player of the year, currently at number 50, and Stevens are in a tight battle with tournaments in Australia and South Africa still to be played. So, what do you think? Will Kefir and Stevens hold their ground? And who do you think will dominate the signature events? Let’s discuss in the comments.
