Eric Cole, the reigning PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, has come a long way from relying on a $20,000 payday to keep his dreams of professional golf alive. With over $2 million in earnings already in 2024 and a promising standing in the FedEx Cup rankings, Cole is poised for more success on the Tour.
After a strong showing at the John Deere Classic, where he posted a 62 in the opening round followed by a solid 68 in the second round, Cole reflected on his journey to the PGA Tour. He recalled a pivotal moment from a year ago when he drove through the night to play in a mini-tour event that had once helped him financially. The event, named after Frank B. Fuhrer Jr., was particularly significant as it played a vital role in Cole’s development as a golfer.
Despite facing some setbacks on Tour, including three missed cuts in a row, Cole’s resilience and determination have shone through. He bounced back with strong performances at the Memorial and Travelers Championship before securing a sixth-place finish at the Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit. Cole attributes his success to his gratitude for being able to play on the PGA Tour and his willingness to work hard to achieve his goals.
In 2023, Cole had a breakout year at the age of 35, playing 37 events with seven top-10 finishes. His stellar performance earned him the prestigious Rookie of the Year award, making him the second-oldest player to receive the honor behind Todd Hamilton. This recognition was a culmination of years of hard work and dedication to his craft.
As Cole navigates the challenges of professional golf, he remains grounded and humble, acknowledging the role that smaller tours and mini-tour events played in his journey. He hopes to inspire others who are still on the path to the PGA Tour by showing them that success is attainable with perseverance and a strong work ethic.
Looking ahead, Cole recognizes the importance of the upcoming events in the Quad Cities as they could significantly impact his standing in the FedEx Cup Playoffs and set the stage for his performance in the next season. His recent success, including a bunker hole-out for birdie at the John Deere Classic, is a testament to his skill and determination on the course.
Despite his newfound success and financial stability, Cole remains connected to his roots and the community that supported him along the way. He continues to check on his friends who play on mini-tours, hoping that his journey can serve as a source of motivation for aspiring golfers who are chasing their dreams.
In conclusion, Eric Cole’s story is one of perseverance, hard work, and gratitude. From humble beginnings on the mini-tour circuit to earning the title of PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, Cole’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication and passion in achieving success in professional golf. As he continues to make his mark on the Tour, Cole’s story serves as an inspiration to all those who dare to dream big in the world of golf.
