In a surprising twist, college golf star Gordon Sargent has been benched for the first time in his stellar career at Vanderbilt. The 21-year-old won’t be teeing it up at the Valspar Collegiate this Monday at Floridian National Golf Club.
It’s a big deal because Sargent isn’t just any college golfer. He’s already earned his PGA Tour card – a pretty rare achievement for someone still in school.
But lately, things haven’t been clicking for the young star. In his three starts this spring, he hasn’t even cracked the top 50, finishing 63rd, 54th, and 74th.
That’s quite a change for someone who was once ranked #1 in world amateur golf.
Last year, Sargent made waves when he earned his PGA Tour card through a special fast-track program. Instead of turning pro right away, he made the unusual choice to stay in school.
"It’s been an honor to represent this university alongside my teammates and coaches," he wrote on Instagram at the time. He wanted to finish what he started at Vanderbilt, a place he called "amazing."
The decision to stay in college wasn’t just about golf. Sargent told the PGA Tour website that everyone says "college golf is the best time of your life."
He’s already proven he can hang with the pros. Last year, he:
- Played in the Masters
- Finished T39 as low amateur at the U.S. Open
- Went undefeated at the Walker Cup
- Competed in The Open Championship
Getting dropped from the lineup must be tough, but it might be just what he needs. There’s still plenty of golf ahead, including defending his title at the Mason Rudolph Championship and the NCAA Championships.
After graduation in May, Sargent will finally make his pro debut. He’ll have full PGA Tour status through 2026 – not bad for a college kid.
Currently ranked 11th in amateur golf, Sargent’s got a few months to get his game back in shape before taking on the biggest stage in golf.
