PGA TOUR, RSM Classic, FedExCup, Ricky Castillo, Lee Hodges, golf highlights, tournament drama
Dive into the thrilling final round of The RSM Classic where PGA TOUR rookies and veterans battled for FedExCup top 100 spots. Watch Ricky Castillo’s incredible 62 and emotional comeback after missing a crucial putt, tying for second but falling just short of securing his TOUR card. Lee Hodges’ gut-wrenching near-miss on the 18th hole after a clutch week, ending his winners exemption. Explore Sami Valimaki’s historic win, Andrew Putnam’s fast start, and other players like Doug Ghim, Beau Hossler, and Matt Kuchar who fought near the bubble. Learn about Castillo’s mental growth, inspired by playing with Scottie Scheffler, and the high stakes of conditional status for 2026. Key moments include Castillo’s 32-foot birdie putt and Hodges’ inches-away birdie. Perfect for golf fans following PGA TOUR drama and FedExCup standings.
A thrilling battle for PGA Tour cards unfolded at the RSM Classic, leaving some hopefuls disappointed. The stakes were high and the emotions ran deep for these golfers. In a dramatic final round, Ricky Castillo, a PGA Tour rookie, and Andrew Putnham, a season tour winner, caught everyone’s attention. Both players started strong, birdies galore, and quickly climbed into the projected top 100, giving them a shot at securing their tour cards. Castillo with his brother by his side kept the momentum going on the front nine, but a misspar putt on the 12th hole brought him back to reality. However, he quickly regrouped, showcasing his mental fortitude and finishing strong with a 62 and a tie for second place. Despite his impressive performance, a late birdie by Max McGrevy pushed Castillo out of the top 100 and into conditional status for the upcoming season. But here’s where it gets controversial. Castillo believes he’s ready to reclaim his tour card at the final stage of PGA Tour Q School. He draws inspiration from Scotty Sheffller, the world’s best player, and feels he’s learned a lot from their time together. Will he prove his confidence, right? Another golfer, Lee Hajes, found himself on the outside looking in. Starting the tournament at number 122, he knew a big week was needed. A strong front nine and some clutch putts on the back kept him in contention, but a missed birdie putt on the final hole dashed his hopes of cracking the top 100. Hodes, who had a tough year with injuries, is now healthy and aiming to build on this top 20 finish. And this is the part most people miss. Doug Gim, a consistent performer on the tour, also fell short. Despite a strong final round, he finished outside the top 100, leaving him with a bitter taste. but he remains optimistic, citing Garrick Higgo’s success earlier this year as an example of how conditional status can lead to bigger things. Two more established names, Bo Hustler and Matt Cooer, also missed out on the top 100 bubble. Their seasons ended with mixed results, leaving them just outside the cut. The RSM Classic showcased the intense competition and emotional roller coaster that is the PGA Tour. Who will rise to the top and secure their place? Only time will tell. What are your thoughts on these golfers journeys? Do you think Castillo and Hajes can bounce back and earn their tour cards? Share your predictions and insights in the comments.
