Five notable PGA Tour players will not retain their 2025-26 season cards, following Sunday's RSM Classic event. Sami Välimäki claimed the inaugural PGA Tour title at the tournament, but his victory came at a cost for other established stars. Lee Hodges, ranked 101, narrowly missed securing his Top-100 status after missing a crucial putt on 18.
Hodges felt that he relied heavily on long putts and shouldn't be held accountable for one shot, while acknowledging the critical role of his putter in his overall game.
Joel Dahmen, known for his high profile as an internet favorite and Netflix star, fell short after missing a cut at the RSM Classic. He cited family life and prioritizing time with his newborn child over golf commitments.
Dahmen's decision not to compete 25 weeks during the year meant he risked losing his full Tour card for the upcoming season. Although this may be a blow to fans who have grown attached to his charismatic on-course presence, Dahmen seems pragmatic in his approach and is likely to secure multiple sponsor exemptions next season.
Matt Kuchar has been an elite figure on the PGA Tour since 2007, boasting nine career victories. He narrowly missed retaining his full card for the next season after failing to claim enough points from recent performances. As he enters a critical phase of his golfing career, Kuchar expressed concern over losing his job and stated that he still desires to compete at the top level.
On the other hand, Sam Ryder secured two Top-10 finishes throughout 2025 but was unable to secure more consistent results on the course. He reflected that he struggled with consistency in terms of accuracy, stating that it felt like a 'grind'.
Lastly, Camilo Villegas posted two strong performances this year before ultimately missing out on retaining his PGA Tour card for the upcoming season. His 2023 victory at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship remains one of his most memorable successes.
Hodges felt that he relied heavily on long putts and shouldn't be held accountable for one shot, while acknowledging the critical role of his putter in his overall game.
Joel Dahmen, known for his high profile as an internet favorite and Netflix star, fell short after missing a cut at the RSM Classic. He cited family life and prioritizing time with his newborn child over golf commitments.
Dahmen's decision not to compete 25 weeks during the year meant he risked losing his full Tour card for the upcoming season. Although this may be a blow to fans who have grown attached to his charismatic on-course presence, Dahmen seems pragmatic in his approach and is likely to secure multiple sponsor exemptions next season.
Matt Kuchar has been an elite figure on the PGA Tour since 2007, boasting nine career victories. He narrowly missed retaining his full card for the next season after failing to claim enough points from recent performances. As he enters a critical phase of his golfing career, Kuchar expressed concern over losing his job and stated that he still desires to compete at the top level.
On the other hand, Sam Ryder secured two Top-10 finishes throughout 2025 but was unable to secure more consistent results on the course. He reflected that he struggled with consistency in terms of accuracy, stating that it felt like a 'grind'.
Lastly, Camilo Villegas posted two strong performances this year before ultimately missing out on retaining his PGA Tour card for the upcoming season. His 2023 victory at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship remains one of his most memorable successes.
he was so close to getting that top 100 status and it's crazy how much pressure can come from just one shot 
sam ryan is being real too, consistency is key and it sucks when you're stuck in a grind 
but let's be real, these guys are still rockstars on the course 
and i'm low-key rooting for matt kuchar to keep fighting, he's had so many epic wins already 
camilo villegas tho, what can you say? 2 great performances but not enough to hold onto that card 
and as for joel dahmen, being a new dad is literally the most important thing right now 
i'm good with him taking some time off and coming back when he's ready 
, I mean, two top 10's ain't bad, but it's like, what even is consistency? Is it just a myth perpetuated by golf commentators to make the game more exciting? 
On the other hand, Matt Kuchar's got some serious concerns about losing his job, and I'm like, dude, don't be paranoid 
, you're still one of the best. But then again, Camilo Villegas's struggles are kinda relatable... or am I just saying that because I had a rough week at fantasy golf last season? 
Meanwhile, Joel Dahmen's got his priorities straight, family comes first, and all that jazz 
. Lee Hodges needs to chill out about those long putts, though 
.
25 weeks out of the season is a pretty big chunk to sacrifice, especially if he thinks he can still secure sponsor exemptions. What's the real reason behind this decision? Where's the evidence? 
. And Joel Dahmen, I feel you, fam 
gotta prioritize family life over golf commitments, even if it means taking a year off.
. He's one of the all-time greats and losing his full card is a big deal 
It felt like he was on a grind, but not in a good way 
.
. Anyway, this season is all about finding your rhythm and adapting to the game 
.
sam ryder seems frustrated with consistency tho u feel? maybe he needs a break or some fresh air 
anyway, camilo's still got skills & we love him for it!
. can't blame him tho, family comes first, gotta keep those little ones happy 
. sam ryder is struggling with consistency accuracy wise but that's all it is 
. i feel bad for the guys who got cut tho, been there done that 
, and I gotta give props to Joel Dahmen for prioritizing family life - we all need a balance in life, right? 