Eddie Pepperell fights his way back to the DP World Tour after a tough stretch and an emotional Q-School comeback.
For the second time in his career, Eddie Pepperell has successfully made it through Q-School to regain his DP World Tour card. Since his first appearance in 2016, the Englishman has experienced a rollercoaster journey. After winning twice on the DP World Tour in 2018 and finishing third at the 2019 Players Championship, Pepperell climbed into the world’s top 50. But maintaining that level proved difficult. He repeatedly fought to keep his card, narrowly held on, and ultimately lost it in 2024 after missing several cuts early in the season despite a determined comeback effort. A year ago, he attempted to return via Q-School but missed out by failing to convert a two-meter eagle putt.
Challenge Tour struggles and burnout
Pepperell spent the following year on the Challenge Tour, which also had its challenges. At the Turkish Airlines Open, he withdrew after just six holes and a quadruple bogey, citing burnout. “I’ve just played a lot of golf, not just this year but also late last year, and I think it wore me down,” he explained. The previous season, he played eleven consecutive events trying to retain his card—unsuccessfully. Even after that, his schedule remained intense. “There’s just so much to play for,” he told Sky. “Whether you’re in my situation, fighting for a PGA TOUR card, or trying to stay in the top 50 as a PGA TOUR player—there’s a lot at stake.” Eventually, he took a break and returned refreshed.
Q-School redemption and emotional finish
Despite his efforts on the Challenge Tour, Pepperell couldn’t secure a promotion and returned to Q-School. He earned his spot in the grueling final stage—what he calls the “Ironman of golf”—by advancing through the Second Stage. This time, he approached the final with more energy and a calmer mindset. It paid off. Near the end of his last round, he was outside the qualifying positions but delivered four consecutive birdies under pressure. “I’m actually quite proud of myself,” he told the DP World Tour. “It was a tough day with a great finish.”
The moment was deeply emotional. Asked about his feelings after such a difficult period, Pepperell was moved to tears. “The game was really hard for a while,” he said. “I made it hard on myself. I just want to build on what I’ve achieved here.”
Looking ahead on the DP World Tour
Now back on the DP World Tour, Pepperell is looking forward to the future. “I’d like to play a bit of golf at the end of the year—maybe travel to Australia, South Africa, and Mauritius,” he said before the Q-School final. With his card secured, those dreams are once again within reach.