Tommy Gainey has withdrawn from the Korn Ferry Tour opener for selfless reasons, giving younger players a chance to compete.
The 2026 Korn Ferry Tour season opens without a past winner as Tommy Gainey opted out of the Bahamas Great Exuma Classic, a tournament he won in 2020 and to which he had eligibility until this year.
Tommy Gainey: ‘It’s Ten Times Harder Than When I Played’
Gainey joined the Korn Ferry Tour (formerly Nationwide Tour) in 2007, winning two events in 2010 to secure full PGA Tour status. He reached his peak in 2012 with a final round 60 to win the McGladrey Classic, his only PGA Tour victory.
After facing challenges on and off the course, Gainey returned to winner’s circle at the 2020 Bahamas Great Exuma Classic, his third Korn Ferry Tour win, granting him exemption until 2026.
However, Gainey declined the invitation from tournament director Josh Franklin, wanting to give younger players the opportunity to prove themselves and progress to the PGA Tour. He expressed affection for the event but acknowledged how difficult it is nowadays to qualify for the Korn Ferry Tour, emphasizing the importance of those who have worked hard earning their spot.
He stated, “It’s ten times harder than when I played. I didn’t want to take a spot from anyone. These young players are so talented that anyone can win, even the last in the field.”
Victory on the Champions Tour Makes It Possible
After turning 50 in August, Gainey earned a new opportunity on the Champions Tour. He played nine events last year on the senior circuit, winning the Constellation Furyk & Friends tournament in October, securing full status for this year and no longer needing the Korn Ferry Tour.
It is commendable that Gainey is passing up a chance at a $1,000,000 purse to allow other emerging players to establish themselves in professional golf.