Will Chandler, a pro golfer, had a significant year in 2021. Despite struggling to gain traction on the top tours after turning pro, Chandler managed to qualify for the Korn Ferry Tour five times. His efforts earned him enough points to obtain conditional status on the tour for 2025. Impressively, Chandler also successfully went through PGA Tour Q-School to secure his PGA Tour card for the current season.
Chandler’s first two starts on the PGA Tour did not go as planned, resulting in missed cuts. However, he redeemed himself by Monday-qualifying for the WM Phoenix Open, known for its competitiveness and difficulty among Monday qualifiers on the PGA Tour. Chandler displayed an aggressive style of play during the qualifying round, ultimately finishing at seven under to secure a spot in the field. Surprisingly, he went on to shoot four consecutive rounds in the 60s and tied for sixth place, earning a significant paycheck of $310,500.
Chandler’s success at the WM Phoenix Open may soon become a trivia question as the event is set to undergo changes in 2026, reducing the player field from 132 to 120 and eliminating Monday qualifiers. Despite this impending change, Chandler’s remarkable achievement as one of the final men to Monday-qualify for the event will be remembered. Reflecting on his performance, Chandler expressed satisfaction with his week’s outcome but acknowledged that there is still room for improvement in his game.
The challenges faced by golfers like Chandler highlight the competitive nature of professional golf and the necessity of consistently performing well to secure playing opportunities on top tours. While a PGA Tour card and high FedEx Cup ranking guarantee starts for some pros, many others must navigate the demanding process of Monday-qualifying to earn their spots in tournaments. Despite the difficulties faced by these pros, stories like Chandler’s serve as inspiration for aspiring golfers looking to make their mark in the sport.
Chandler’s journey from struggling to gain traction on the tours to successfully earning a PGA Tour card showcases the resilience and dedication required to succeed in professional golf. His ability to perform under pressure, as demonstrated by his Monday-qualifying successes and strong showing at the WM Phoenix Open, exemplifies the determination and skill necessary to compete at the highest level. Chandler’s story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sport and the unpredictable opportunities that can arise with perseverance and hard work.
As Chandler continues his professional golf career, he remains focused on improving his game and building on his recent success. His experience highlights the importance of staying committed to one’s goals and continually working towards achieving them. With his PGA Tour card secured and momentum from his recent achievements, Chandler is poised to make a lasting impact on the professional golf circuit. As he looks ahead to future tournaments and challenges, Chandler’s story serves as a testament to the potential for success in the face of adversity in the competitive world of professional golf.
