Joel Dahmen’s journey to securing his PGA Tour card at No. 124 was one of the most compelling stories of the fall season. With only 125 cards available, Dahmen was facing a make-or-break situation in the final week of the season. After a disappointing double-bogey 7 on Saturday, he managed to bounce back with a spectacular Sunday round of 64, securing his spot at No. 124 and securing his Tour card for the 2025 season. However, according to DataGolf, Dahmen’s future on the Tour may not be as secure as it seems, as it may be more difficult for him to return in 2026.
The changes to the PGA Tour’s structure, which will see the number of cards reduced from 125 to 100 at the end of the next season, as well as a reduction in Korn Ferry Tour graduates from 30 to 20, will make it even harder for players like Dahmen to secure their spots on the Tour. DataGolf’s analysis shows that the level of play required to earn a PGA Tour card from the Korn Ferry Tour is significantly lower than what is required to keep a card on the PGA Tour. This means that players who graduate from the KFT often struggle to maintain their status on the Tour.
Despite the challenges he may face in the upcoming seasons, Dahmen remains focused on improving his game and staying competitive on the Tour. He acknowledges that he needs to work on certain aspects of his game, such as his putting and consistency in approach play, in order to break into the top 100 players on Tour. Despite his struggles in certain areas, Dahmen has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in his approach play and off the tee, where he has excelled.
Dahmen’s performance under pressure, especially in critical moments during the season, has shown his ability to compete at the highest level. He believes that he can build on these moments and continue to improve his game as he competes on the PGA Tour. While the future may be uncertain, Dahmen is determined to make the most of his opportunities on the big stage and prove that he belongs among the top players in the world. With his determination and talent, Dahmen is poised to make a name for himself on the PGA Tour and establish himself as a formidable competitor in the coming seasons.
