How much prize money did German pros like Stephan Jäger and Martin Kaymer earn in 2025? Who had a strong year and who struggled financially?
Category: PGA Tour
Doug Ghim is ready to turn the page after a challenging season that saw him finish 113th in the FedExCup Fall, losing his exempt status on the PGA Tour. Determined to make 2026 a breakthrough year, Ghim is focused on crafting a comeback that reflects his resilience and talent.
Sami Valimaki emerged victorious at the RSM Classic, securing his maiden PGA Tour title in the final event of the FedEx Cup Fall. The Finnish golfer delivered a composed and consistent performance throughout the week, culminating in a final-round 66 to finish four-under-par on Sunday. With this win, Valimaki not only celebrates his first career victory on the PGA Tour but also qualifies for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the Genesis Invitational.
PGA Tour: Valimaki shines at RSM Classic finale
Entering the tournament ranked 74th in the FedEx Cup standings, Sami Valimaki was already in a strong position to retain his PGA Tour card for the 2026 season. However, the 27-year-old made the most of the opportunity, showcasing a near-flawless game across four rounds. On Sunday, he carded a 66 to fend off late charges from Americans Max McGreevy (-7) and Ricky Castillo (-8). Valimaki started strong with birdies on holes 2 and 4, followed by a risky tee shot on hole 5 that led to a bogey—just his fourth of the week. He bounced back quickly with another birdie on hole 8 and added two more on the back nine at holes 10 and 15 to seal the win.
Mixed results for German players
It was a disappointing week for the German contingent. Jeremy Paul and Stephan Jäger both missed the cut on Friday, finishing at three and four under par, respectively. Jäger concluded the FedEx Cup Fall season ranked 68th, securing his PGA Tour card. However, a stronger finish might have propelled him into the top 60, granting him entry into Pebble Beach and the Genesis Invitational. Jeremy Paul ended the season at 135th, resulting in the loss of his PGA Tour card. Thomas Rosenmüller, the only German to make the weekend, finished T64 after rounds of 72 and 69, placing him 151st in the standings and also costing him his card.
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Fans traveled over 4,800 miles from Helsinki, Finland, to Sea Island to witness Sami Valimaki’s first career victory on the PGA Tour at The RSM Classic. This milestone marks a significant moment for the young Finnish player, who has steadily made his mark on the professional golf scene.
Fred Couples once again demonstrates his timeless skill and effortless style on the golf course, reminding fans why he remains a beloved figure in the sport. His smooth swing and calm demeanor make challenging shots look deceptively simple, a testament to his experience and talent.
Sam Stevens delivered one of the most remarkable moments at this year’s PGA Tour event, The RSM Classic, by scoring a hole-in-one from 196 yards. What makes this ace extraordinary is that Stevens himself never saw the ball drop into the cup, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the round.
Lee Hodges finds himself in a critical position as the PGA Tour season approaches its final stretch at the RSM Classic. Currently ranked 122nd in the FedExCup Fall standings, Hodges knows that a strong performance on Sunday is essential to secure his playing rights for the 2026 season.
Zac Blair finds himself at a pivotal point in his career as he competes at the PGA Tour‘s RSM Classic. After narrowly missing fully exempt status twice, Blair is back in familiar territory, needing a strong performance to maintain his playing privileges for the 2026 season.
Blair’s journey on the PGA Tour has been marked by resilience and determination. The stakes are high at the RSM Classic, the final tournament of the FedExCup Fall, where players battle not only for prize money but also for their tour cards. For Blair, this event represents a critical opportunity to secure his place among the elite for the upcoming season.
Pressure Mounts at the RSM Classic
The RSM Classic, held at the Sea Island Golf Club in Georgia, is known for its challenging layout and competitive field. Blair’s performance here will be closely watched as he attempts to avoid the uncertainty of qualifying school or limited status next year. His experience and composure under pressure will be key factors in his success.
Implications for the PGA Tour Season
Maintaining a PGA Tour card is essential for players like Blair, who rely on consistent access to tournaments to build their careers and earnings. The RSM Classic serves as a final proving ground before the new season begins, making every shot count. Blair’s ability to deliver under pressure could define his trajectory moving forward.
For fans and followers of the PGA Tour, Blair’s situation highlights the intense competition and fine margins that separate success from setback in professional golf.
Matt Kuchar has been a consistent presence on the PGA Tour for nearly two decades. As the 2025 season nears its end, the veteran golfer is fighting to secure his full status for the 2026 season by making the cut at the RSM Classic.