Nick Dunlap, a young golfer who made headlines last January by becoming the first amateur in 33 years to win a PGA Tour event, faced the question of whether he should remain an amateur or turn pro. Despite initial struggles, Dunlap and his team decided to take the plunge and turn pro to gain more experience and take advantage of major playing opportunities. This decision paid off as Dunlap claimed his second PGA Tour victory at the Barracuda Championship, making history as the first player to win as both an amateur and a professional in the same calendar year.
Despite critics pointing out that the Barracuda Championship is an alternate event from the British Open and may not have featured all the top players in the world, Dunlap’s victory is still significant. Not only does it solidify his status as a rising star in the golf world, but it also allows him to market himself as more than just a one-hit wonder after his win at The American Express. Dunlap’s victory at the Barracuda Championship also came with a significant amount of prize money, making it the largest check of his career and bringing his total earnings for the year to $2 million.
With this victory, Dunlap joins the ranks of golfers with multiple wins on the PGA Tour this year, demonstrating his potential and talent on the tour. His success at the Barracuda Championship may also secure his spot in the FedEx Cup playoffs, a remarkable achievement for a rookie golfer. Dunlap’s recent strong performances, including an 11th-place finish at The Memorial and a tie for 10th at the Rocket Mortgage event, reflect his improving game and growing confidence on the tour.
Following his victory at the Barracuda Championship, Dunlap credited a change in coaching and a new approach to the tour for his improved results. By incorporating activities like fishing into his routine to take a mental break from golf, Dunlap has found a balance that allows him to reset and focus on his game with a fresh mindset. As he continues to hone his skills and gain more experience on the PGA Tour, fans can anticipate seeing Dunlap reel in more victories and potentially defend his title at The American Express in January.
Overall, Nick Dunlap’s journey from amateur standout to PGA Tour champion is a testament to his talent, determination, and ability to thrive under pressure. By choosing to turn pro and take on the challenges of professional golf, Dunlap has proven that he has what it takes to compete at the highest level and make a name for himself in the sport. With his recent success at the Barracuda Championship, Dunlap has solidified his position as a rising star in the golf world and a force to be reckoned with on the PGA Tour.
