Nick Dunlap's Meteoric Rise: From College Golfer to PGA Tour Champion at 20

December 4, 2024
Nick Dunlap's Meteoric Rise: From College Golfer to PGA Tour Champion at 20
  • Nick Dunlap is set to make his Hero World Challenge debut in December 2024, capping off an extraordinary first year on the PGA Tour.

  • At just 20 years old, Dunlap was a sophomore on the University of Alabama golf team eight months ago and has quickly risen to become a two-time PGA Tour champion.

  • He secured his second PGA Tour title at the Barracuda Championship in July 2024, adding to his earlier victory at the American Express event as an amateur in January.

  • Winning the American Express made him the first amateur to triumph in a PGA Tour event since Phil Mickelson in 1991, although he did not receive the $1.512 million winner’s check due to his amateur status.

  • Instead, Dunlap earned $720,000 for his Barracuda win and $760,000 for a fifth-place finish at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.

  • His rapid success prompted him to turn professional earlier than planned, as he originally intended to join the Tour in 2025 through PGA Tour University.

  • Despite his achievements, he still experiences an 'awe factor' at tournaments, reflecting on the dreamlike quality of his journey.

  • Dunlap's journey on the PGA Tour has involved significant adjustments, including managing media attention and competing against golfers he once admired.

  • Looking ahead, Dunlap aspires to qualify for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, showcasing his ambition for high-stakes team competitions.

  • Even if he finishes last at the Hero World Challenge, he is guaranteed to earn $150,000 and a photo opportunity with Tiger Woods, which he views as an incredible experience.

Summary based on 1 source


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