PGA Tour Q-School Update: Thrilling Day 3 at TPC Sawgrass

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. — The action is heating up at the PGA Tour Qualifying School (Q-School), presented by Korn Ferry, where an intense battle for five coveted PGA Tour cards is unfolding. As of December 13, the penultimate day of competition showcased a significant number of contenders, all vying for a chance to secure their place in professional golf for 2026. The Sawgrass Country Club has proven to be more forgiving this year than anticipated, leading to a whirlwind of low scores across the board.

Dynamic Scoring at Sawgrass

The third round at TPC Sawgrass’s Dye’s Valley Course was notably tamer compared to previous years. Participants capitalized on the course’s easier setup, leading to scores that would have been unfathomable in years past. Both Ben Kohles and Marcelo Rozo ended the day in a tie for the top position at 11-under-par, with each recording an impressive bogey-free round of 65. Kohles, a University of Virginia alumnus, expressed a strong connection to this course, having lived in Ponte Vedra Beach since 2019, which has certainly given him a home-field advantage.

The Contenders’ Mental Game

As the competition intensifies, Kohles highlighted the importance of a focused mindset. "My goal is to shoot the lowest round possible tomorrow," he said. He’s mindful of the need to avoid complacency as he strives for a top-five finish. Players like Cooper Dossey also exude confidence; just a few weeks into fatherhood, he emphasizes the benefits of a fresh perspective and relaxed approach to his game, leveraging sleep as his newfound ally.

Veteran Experience Shines Through

Tour veteran Spencer Levin is a seasoned contestant at Q-School, drawing from nearly two decades of professional golf experience. “There’s no secret; you have to execute and perform well under pressure,” Levin remarked, noting that Sunday’s final round would be familiar territory for him. His leadership on the course, illustrated by his stellar round of 63, positions him to make a strong push in the final day.

Rising Stars and Fresh Faces

Marcelo Rozo is also making headlines with his strong finish on Day 3, which included three birdies in succession between the 15th and 17th holes. He feels his aggressive strategy is bolstered by having nothing to lose, as he already has full Korn Ferry Tour status for 2026. His upbeat attitude reflects the optimism shared by many participants, eager to capitalize on their opportunities in the final stretch.

The Stakes of Q-School

The outcome of the PGA Tour Q-School is critical. The top five finishers will earn Tour cards for 2026, encouraging fierce competition among the remaining 27 players within five shots of the lead. Interestingly, ties will now be settled through a playoff, adding another layer of excitement as competitors prepare for the final round on December 14.

Qualifying and Future Prospects

For players who don’t make the top five, hope is not lost. The next 40 participants will receive full Korn Ferry Tour status for 2026, providing them a valuable platform for further development in professional golf. Understanding how this system works is crucial for aspiring golfers looking to make their mark in the sport.

Spectator Information

Fans eager to witness the Q-School action in person can enjoy free parking and no admission fees to watch from the Dye’s Valley Course. For those heading to the Sawgrass Country Club, attendance is limited to club members and residents, ensuring an intimate viewing experience for players and dedicated fans alike.

How to Follow the Final Round

For golf enthusiasts who cannot attend, the excitement continues to be accessible through live coverage. The final round will be streamed on the NBC Sports App from 12-2 p.m. ET, followed by a broadcast on Golf Channel from 2-4 p.m. ET. This provides fans an excellent opportunity to stay connected with the drama unfolding at one of golf’s most prestigious venues.

As the countdown to the final day at PGA Tour Q-School continues, the spotlight remains on players like Kohles and Rozo, and it will be fascinating to see who emerges triumphant when the dust settles. The stakes are high, and fans are poised for a captivating conclusion. The storyline leading to the awarding of those five coveted PGA Tour cards is one that encapsulates the grit, determination, and passion that define professional golf.