Key Highlights
- Jordan Smith is among the DP World Tour players eyeing 10 PGA Tour cards.
- Rasmus Hojgaard secured his U.S. card for 2026 but only with access to $20 million signature events.
- No one from the group of European tour graduates has kept full status on both tours yet.
- Jordan Smith is currently No. 15 in the Race to Dubai standings and leading Martin Couvra by a significant margin.
Background on DP World Tour Players Seeking PGA Tour Cards
In recent years, several players from the DP World Tour have expressed interest in securing PGA Tour cards. This year, Jordan Smith finds himself among those vying for one of the 10 available spots. The Race to Dubai standings determine who will gain entry into the PGA Tour.
Impact of LIV Golf on European Tour Graduates
The withdrawal of Tom McKibbin from the PGA Tour due to his involvement with LIV Golf left Jordan Smith and others in a precarious position. McKibbin’s move to the Saudi-backed league prevented Smith, who was 11th on the list, from securing a spot.
Challenges Faced by European Tour Graduates
The European tour graduates have faced significant challenges in maintaining their status on both tours. Rory McIlroy, while content with his career achievements, remains more driven to secure certain goals. The bigger issue for these players is the lack of access to high-stakes events that offer higher FedExCup points.
Current Standings and Prospects
Rasmus Hojgaard stands out as one of the few who have managed to keep his status on both tours, securing a spot in the Ryder Cup. He is currently No. 34 in the European tour rankings and has participated in three $20 million signature events, which are crucial for maintaining full status.
Other players like Thorbjorn Olesen (No. 95 in FedExCup) and Jesper Svensson (No. 121) have shown promise but face an uphill battle to secure their positions on both tours. Paul Waring’s shoulder injury has significantly impacted his prospects, as he had to effectively shut down his year in July.
As the DP World Tour Championship approaches, the remaining tournaments will provide a critical opportunity for these players to improve their standings and secure their futures on the PGA Tour.
Future Implications
The outcome of this season could have significant implications for the golfing landscape. Jordan Smith’s position in the Race to Dubai standings suggests he is well-placed to claim a spot, but the competition is fierce. The next few weeks will determine whether these players can navigate the challenges and secure their place on the PGA Tour.
