Missing a putt to earn a PGA Tour card is arguably the toughest pill to swallow in professional golf – and it’s something Luke Clanton experienced first-hand at the WM Phoenix Open.
Before the event, Clanton knew making the cut would secure a PGA Tour card via the PGA Tour U pathway. But, after posting a three-over 74 on Thursday, Clanton had work to do in the second round.
And things looked promising on the back nine. Clanton had made birdies on 11, 13, 15 and 17 to pull within touching distance of the cut. The Florida State graduate knew a birdie at the last would see him through to the weekend and secure his Tour status.
Unfortunately, his effort did not break as anticipated, leaving him one shot outside the dotted line.
Luke Clanton’s next move after he misses putt to earn PGA Tour card
After narrowly missing out in Phoenix, Clanton laid out his next steps and revealed he will now return to the college scene.
“I’m going to head back to Florida State,” he said. I’m going to have some fun with the guys and go play some college events.
“Hopefully maybe we get a start or two coming up, but again, I’m not stressed out, man. My time will come.”
Had Clanton been a professional in 2024, he would have earned over $1.8 million in prize money after finishing second at the John Deere Classic and RSM Classic.
What Luke Clanton was thinking on the 18th at the WM Phoenix Open
As the 18th drew near, Clanton admitted his attention was drawn on the cut line and whether he had done enough to make the weekend.
“We thought about the cut from 14 on, basically,” he added.
“But it’s not going to change the way I roll it. It’s not going to change the way I read it. It was a great day today. I had a blast. I put up a great fight. I had to make five birdies in my last eight holes and put four up, and I had a great chance on 18.
“It’s tough. It’s hard to take. But again, I’m going to walk in my faith and keep understanding that it’s not my time.”
Will Luke Clanton earn PGA Tour card?
Despite not making the cut in Phoenix, Clanton is highly likely to gain PGA Tour status in the not-too-distant future.
The 21-year-old has another start at next month’s Valspar Championship after winning the Valspar Collegiate in 2024.
Furthermore, he will likely win the Ben Hogan Award, which is given to the top college player and is worth another PGA Tour U point. Clanton currently has 18 points, but 20 are required to secure Tour status from the U program.
Receive exclusive golf news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
