Evan Thompson isn’t just chasing flags—he’s chasing validation. After firing a 66 to earn medalist honors at U.S. Open Local Qualifying, the Kennesaw State graduate put himself just 36 holes away from teeing it up at Oakmont. But this wasn’t just a win for his golf career—it was a moment of vindication for a player whose game has been questioned as much as it's been viewed.

From the Gridiron to the Greens

Thompson isn’t your traditional amateur. A standout linebacker at Kennesaw State, he set a school record with 118 tackles in a single season and earned All-Big South First Team honors in 2021. Football was his first path to notoriety, but golf has always been a passion, and now, it’s taken center stage.

After transferring from Florida Tech, Thompson joined the KSU men’s golf program, balancing his graduate studies with competitive golf. His strong play continued in college, notching a career-best 210 (-6) at the 2023 ASUN Championship and a personal-low 68 in tournament play.

A Star on TikTok—With Critics in Tow

Thompson’s rise to golf prominence has come not only through fairways and greens but also through feeds and reels. On TikTok, his personality, swing speed, and raw transparency about his grind have garnered thousands of followers.

But as his videos gained traction, so did the skepticism.

Some accused him of inflating his scores or “acting” like a better player than he is. Others questioned the legitimacy of his training routines. It's the double-edged sword of virality: while many embraced his authenticity, others dismissed him as another content creator “playing golf” rather than a serious competitor.