Gordon Sargent: The PGA Tour member who is still an amateur

February 7, 2024 | by Pete Wlodkowski of AmateurGolf.com

Gordon Sargent was Low Am at the 2023 U.S. Open (Kathryn Riley, USGA)

Sargent is eligible to play the Tour right after the 2024 NCAA's. That is, if LIV Golf doesn't poach him first

Gordon Sargent has quickly emerged as one of the most promising talents in the world of golf. Currently holding the top spot in both the Golfweek/AG World and U.S. Rankings, Sargent's journey through the ranks has been nothing short of remarkable.

The Vanderbilt star is known for his length, but his talent runs much deeper than 350-yard drives or 200-yard 7-irons. Sargent’s consistent performances and ability to shine on both national and international stages have garnered attention from everyone and earned him a PGA Tour card for the 2024/2024 season.

That’s right. Via the relatively new PGA Tour University, Sargent has a clear path to the PGA Tour. That is if LIV Golf doesn’t poach him first.

Following the conclusion of stroke play at the 2024 NCAA D-I National Championship (May 24-27), Sargent will become eligible to accept PGA TOUR membership upon turning professional.

Early Beginnings and Rapid Ascent
Starting in 2020, ranked 298th in the World and 147th in the U.S., Sargent's early promise was evident with victories in the Alabama State Amateur and noteworthy finishes in other amateur competitions. His determination and skill set the stage for a meteoric rise in the golfing hierarchy.

Breakthrough and Consistency
By 2021, Sargent had catapulted to 44th in the World Rankings and 28th in the U.S., highlighted by a runner-up finish at the Western Amateur and a strong showing at the Jones Cup Invitational. His performances across various tournaments showcased his versatility and competitiveness, laying the groundwork for future success.

Dominance and Recognition
2022 and 2023 further embossed Sargent's dominance in amateur and collegiate golf. Achieving 3rd in both World and U.S. Player-of-the-Year Rankings in consecutive years, he notched impressive victories, including at the NCAA Championship and multiple collegiate tournaments. His ability to perform at the highest level was further evidenced by strong finishes in prestigious events like the U.S. Open (where he finished as low amateur) and the World Amateur Team Championship.

Sargent's trajectory is a testament to his hard work and talent. Here are some other highlights and additional accomplishments that have shaped his career:

Mark H. McCormack Medal Winner
In 2023, Sargent was awarded the prestigious Mark H. McCormack Medal as the leading male in the World Amateur Golf Ranking® (WAGR®), a testament to his prowess and consistency on the amateur circuit. This achievement not only highlights his status as the top amateur golfer globally but also earned him exemptions into major tournaments, including the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club's Course No. 2 and The Open at Royal Troon.

PGA Tour Membership
Making history, Sargent became the first player to earn his PGA TOUR card through the PGA TOUR U Accelerated program. This remarkable feat was achieved while he was still engaged in collegiate golf, showcasing his exceptional talent and setting the stage for his professional career.

Collegiate and Amateur Success
Throughout his collegiate career at Vanderbilt, Sargent accumulated numerous accolades, including the Phil Mickelson Outstanding Freshman Award for the 2021-2022 season, SEC Freshman of the Year, and selections to the All-SEC First Team and as a First-team All-American by Ping and Golfweek. These awards are reflective of his dominant performances and his significant impact on collegiate golf.

Special Invitation to The Masters
In January 2023, Sargent received a special invitation to play in the Masters Tournament, a rare honor that acknowledged the value of his individual 2022 NCAA Championship victory. Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley has announced that going forward, the NCAA champion will receive an automatic exemption into The Masters. For 2023 champion Fred Biondi, who has turned pro -- the exemption wasn't worth the wait.

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