Reap the Rewards

We're down to our final "regular" event of the season. Unlike all the other "regular" events... this one actually has consequence. After Sunday, the top 100 players in the FedEx Cup Standings automatically retain their TOUR card.

The "100" number is bullshit due to all the exemptions (money list, sponsor, major medical, Rickie Fowler)... but for the most part there is actually some intrigue this week as to who might be headed back to Korn Ferry... and who might make the "playoffs."

Around that 100 cut-line we have Tom Kim, Max Homa, Beau Hossler, Joel Dahmen, and Brandt Snedeker. Household names in golf that easily would have retained status on the old system... and now all have to play in this week's Wyndham Championship.

Snedeker, Snedeker, Snedeker.

But how cool would it be if that list included: Tony Finau, Gary Woodland, Adam Scott? Not that I want those guys off the TOUR - at least on paper - but they're hovering around 75. And a cut-off at that number creates more drama.

We might get there one day, if the TOUR elevates the elevated events to the point that they are the only official "schedule." I'm looking forward to the analysis of how 2025's Korn Ferry churn ends up. How easy was it for lower-status players (not named Rickie) to get into Signature Events?

As for the pool, I think realistically only one guy can catch Melissa. And anyone outside the top 25 probably has no chance to finish in the money. Thirty-plus points is a lot of ground to make up when the "playoffs" start, since all the top rosters have those golfers.

Which also means nobody is going to "catch" Steve in the cellar.

Good luck!