PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. — Lanto Griffin made headlines by sinking a remarkable 40-foot putt for eagle on his very first hole, ultimately achieving an impressive score of 7-under 63 in the final round of Q-school. This performance secured him the top position among six players who earned PGA Tour cards for the upcoming season.
Griffin finished the competition as the medalist with an overall score of 9-under 271. However, the primary goal was to secure a spot among the top five players or tied positions, ensuring full status as the PGA Tour enters a period of significant changes, including a reduction in field sizes beginning in 2025.
Also making the cut were Hayden Buckley, who shot a 67, and Takumi Kanaya of Japan, a former world No. 1 amateur, who completed his round with a 69. Kanaya made two vital 8-foot putts for par on his final holes, allowing him to secure his tour card.
Following them at 4-under 276 were Alejandro Tosti from Argentina with a score of 66, Will Chandler also at 66, and Matthew Riedel, who finished with a 72. Chandler appeared to be in a tight spot until he impressed on the back nine of the Dye Valley course at TPC Sawgrass, scoring an extraordinary 30, including a crucial 45-foot eagle putt on the 16th hole that solidified his chance for a PGA Tour card.
Riedel faced his own share of tension during the round, finding himself on the edge of qualification. On the difficult par-4 17th, his drive veered left, heading dangerously close to the water. Fortunately, the thick Bermuda grass helped keep the ball dry, and he managed to salvage a par. On the final hole, Riedel aimed his tee shot wide of the water but fell short of the green. After a chip that went 4 feet past the pin, he faced a nerve-wracking par putt that barely slid to the left of the cup, putting his lead in jeopardy.
Alistair Docherty, who was tied for the lead heading into the final round, struggled significantly. He didn’t hit a birdie until the 17th hole and required one more to secure his first PGA Tour card. Unfortunately, his approach went over the green, resulting in a score of 73, ultimately missing the cut by just one stroke.
Players who were unable to earn a PGA Tour card will still have opportunities on the Korn Ferry Tour, where they will receive various levels of status for the upcoming season.
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