The 2024 RSM Classic held at Sea Island Resort’s Seaside Course was a defining moment for Joel Dahmen. With a 6-foot par putt on the line, Dahmen knew he had to make it to secure his place among the top 125 in the FedEx Cup points race and earn full-exempt status for the 2025 season. Despite feeling nervous, he buried the putt, capping off a final-round bogey-free 64 to finish T-35 in the tournament.
Earlier in the week, Dahmen had to make another crucial putt just to make the cut and stay in contention for a top 125 finish. A quiet drive with his wife, Lona, after a disappointing round on Saturday allowed him to process his emotions and refocus for the final day of the tournament. Lona’s words of encouragement helped Dahmen regain his confidence and approach the final round with a renewed sense of determination.
Dahmen’s caddie, Geno Bonnalie, believed in his ability to climb the leaderboard despite the odds. A stellar performance on the back nine, including an eagle on the 13th hole and three consecutive birdies, propelled Dahmen into contention for a top 125 finish. Despite feeling the pressure on the closing holes, he managed to keep his composure and secure his spot in the top 125.
Two other players who moved into the top 125 were Daniel Berger, who finished T-2 and climbed to No. 100, and Henrik Norlander, who jumped to No. 120 after finishing T-17. Sam Ryder narrowly held onto the 125th spot, while rookie Hayden Springer fell just short of full-exempt status after a disappointing final round.
Unfortunately, the movement of players into the top 125 also meant that two players, Zac Blair and Wesley Bryan, dropped out of the coveted group. Both players missed the cut at the RSM Classic, causing them to fall outside of the top 125 and lose their full-exempt status for the 2025 season.
The dramatic conclusion to the RSM Classic highlighted the high stakes of professional golf and the emotional rollercoaster that players experience when their livelihoods are on the line. As the PGA Tour looks ahead to the 2025 season-opening event at The Sentry, players like Joel Dahmen, Daniel Berger, and Henrik Norlander will be aiming to build on their success and continue competing at the highest level.
