The 2024 DP World Tour Championship concluded with a triumphant victory for Rory McIlroy, securing his Race to Dubai title. However, the spotlight wasn’t solely on McIlroy; ten other players celebrated a monumental achievement – securing coveted PGA Tour cards for the 2025 season and earning dual membership for the upcoming year. This remarkable feat mirrors last year’s success, providing a vital pathway between the two prestigious tours. Players like Robert MacIntyre and Mathieu Pavon demonstrated the transformative power of this opportunity, achieving PGA Tour victories in the past. This year’s qualifiers represent a diverse mix of established talents and rising stars, each with a compelling story to tell.
Let’s delve into the exceptional performances that earned these ten golfers their well-deserved PGA Tour spots:
Rasmus Hojgaard (Race to Dubai Position: Second):
After narrowly missing out last year, Hojgaard secured a PGA Tour card in 2025 with another stellar season. His highlights include a remarkable victory at the Amgen Irish Open, where he birdied four of his final five holes to claim a one-shot win over Rory McIlroy. Eight top-10 finishes throughout the year, including a strong showing in Dubai, solidified his position among the world’s top 50 golfers. His next goal? Following in his brother Nicolai’s footsteps and making his Ryder Cup debut.Thriston Lawrence (Race to Dubai Position: Third):
While Lawrence didn’t secure any wins in 2024, his exceptional consistency spoke volumes. Five runner-up finishes and a total of ten top-10 finishes showcased his remarkable resilience and ability to compete at the highest level. His performance at The Open Championship, where he briefly led the final group, marked a significant milestone in his career. This South African golfer’s unwavering dedication has secured him a well-deserved spot on the PGA Tour.Paul Waring (Race to Dubai Position: Fifth):
Waring’s story is one of remarkable resilience and late-career triumph. After a long and sometimes challenging career, his victory at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship – his second career win and a course record-breaking performance – proved to be a game-changer. His consistency, highlighted by six top-10 finishes, further cemented his position among the qualifiers.Jesper Svensson (Race to Dubai Position: Tenth):
In his breakout season, Svensson’s performance at the Porsche Singapore Classic, where he secured his maiden DP World Tour victory with a course-record 63 and a playoff win, was undoubtedly a highlight. Six top-10 finishes throughout the year, including near-victories, showcased his potential for future success on the global stage.Niklas Norgaard (Race to Dubai Position: Eleventh):
Norgaard’s journey to the PGA Tour is marked by steady progress and a well-earned victory at the Betfred British Masters. His consistent performances, including six top-10 finishes, highlight his dedication and skill. Becoming the third Dane to win the British Masters added a significant chapter to his impressive career.Matteo Manassero (Race to Dubai Position: Twelfth):
The once-wonderkid, Manassero, who holds the record for youngest DP World Tour winner, experienced a resurgence in 2024. His victory at the Jonsson Workwear Open marked his first tournament win in 11 years, showcasing his return to form. After a brief hiatus, his comeback season has secured him a return to the PGA Tour after a considerable absence.Thorbjorn Olesen (Race to Dubai Position: Thirteenth):
Olesen’s consistent strong finishes, culminating in a victory at the Ras al Khaimah Championship and three top-10 finishes in his final four events, sealed his return to the PGA Tour. His impressive career, including a Ryder Cup appearance, adds to his credentials.Antoine Rozner (Race to Dubai Position: Fifteenth):
While Rozner didn’t secure a win in 2024, his impressive seven top-10 finishes, including a tied-third finish in Dubai, highlight his ability to compete at the highest level. He aims to emulate the success of fellow Frenchman Mathieu Pavon on the PGA Tour.Rikuya Hoshino (Race to Dubai Position: Seventeenth):
Hoshino’s transition from the Japan Golf Tour to the DP World Tour was seamless. His victory at the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, alongside several strong performances, proved his adaptability and skill. Even a late slump in Dubai couldn’t dampen his achievement.Tom McKibbin (Race to Dubai Position: Eighteenth):
McKibbin, a rising star, secured his PGA Tour card with consistent performances, boasting nine top-10 finishes throughout the year – second only to Lawrence. His major debut at the US Open and impressive performances across the season underscore his talent and potential for future success.These ten golfers have earned their place among the elite, showcasing their dedication, skill, and resilience. Their journey to the PGA Tour promises exciting developments for both European and American golf fans alike. The 2025 season will undoubtedly see these players making their mark on the global golfing stage.
