Jackson Koivun Accepts PGA Tour Card Ahead of U.S. Open Debut

Jackson Koivun is officially a professional golfer. Ahead of his highly anticipated appearance at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, the Auburn standout announced he has renounced his NCAA eligibility to accept his PGA Tour card. Koivun earned his status through the PGA Tour University Accelerated program, transitioning from the amateur ranks to the professional game with massive expectations on his shoulders. His arrival at Shinnecock Hills marks the beginning of a new chapter for a player many analysts are already calling golf's next megastar.

The decision to turn professional represents a shift in plans for the San Jose native, who had previously deferred his Tour card to continue playing college golf. Speaking to the media on Monday at Shinnecock Hills, Koivun explained that the choice became clear during the winter. "I kind of made that mental decision right around Christmas time, just sitting down and talking with my parents after playing in the fall," Koivun said. "I had a pretty good run on the PGA TOUR that summer, and I just kind of wanted to get back out there."

A Historic Collegiate Legacy

Koivun's rise to the top of the amateur ranks was meteoric. A lifelong fan of Auburn who visited the campus at age 12, he went on to dominate collegiate golf. During his standout season with the Tigers, Koivun won six of the 13 tournaments he entered, guiding Auburn to a national championship. His individual accolades are equally historic; he is the first player in college golf history to win the Haskins, Hogan, and Nicklaus awards—the three major player of the year honors—more than once.

Now sporting a new clothing sponsorship with Malbon, Koivun is drawing significant attention as a potential dark horse and popular DFS option this week. For those looking to back the newly minted professional in his major debut, Koivun is currently available at +15282 (Pinnacle) to win the U.S. Open. While conquering Shinnecock Hills is a monumental task for any young player, Koivun's elite ball-striking and proven winning pedigree make him one of the most intriguing names in the field.