Marco Penge struggles to find a golf club in the USA after joining the PGA Tour. A challenge known by Michael Kim.
Marco Penge was one of the breakout stars last season. Finishing second in the Race to Dubai, he not only nearly won the DP World Tour season but also secured his PGA Tour card for the new season. In early January, Penge moved to the USA to fully focus on the American tour, but the move did not make everything easier. At a press conference before the Farmers Insurance Open, Penge revealed he initially had some difficulties finding a new golf club in the USA, and he is not alone in this.
“I was turned down a few times”
Currently, Penge plays at the Old Palm Golf Club in Florida and feels very comfortable there: “They are a real, family-oriented golf club and very relaxed,” he said. “Old Palm and I fit well together, and the facilities there are great.” But the path was not as simple as Penge probably expected. “I was turned down a few times.”
Michael Kim commented on Penge’s statement on X, saying: “Most private clubs are very open to hosting pros once or twice, but becoming a member is a different story. Usually, we need to know a few non-pro members to start the process. We’re better off than a random businessman, but it’s not as easy as some might think. Unless you’re REALLY famous. Then it’s a different matter. And by really famous, I don’t even count myself. The list of players who can easily join a golf club is usually limited to major winners and the very best in the world.”
Marco Penge eagerly anticipates his PGA Tour debut
Despite the difficulties with the golf club, Penge’s excitement for his debut as a PGA Tour member remains high. “I’m really looking forward to playing the next four weeks. Starting here at Torrey Pines and then heading to Phoenix, Pebble Beach, and Riviera is a pretty good start to my life on the PGA Tour.”
Penge is qualified for the PGA Tour events in the upcoming four weeks and begins his season this weekend at the Farmers Insurance Open. Although his start was rough with a +3 in the first round, many experts still see a good chance for him to make a strong impression in his first season.
Most private clubs are very open to hosting pros once or twice but becoming a member is a different story.
Usually we need to know a few non pro members to start the process. We are better off than a random sales guy but it’s not as easy as some might think.
Unless you’re REALLY… https://t.co/D7SMfzwvfW— Michael S. Kim (@Mike_kim714) January 28, 2026