PGA Tour Pro Kevin Kisner Warns Tour Becoming A 'Closed Shop' As Elite Circuit Tightens Access
PGA Tour veteran Kevin Kisner has expressed concern about the circuit becoming increasingly exclusive, particularly in light of upcoming changes to the tour's competitive structure.
After missing the cut at the 2024 RSM Classic, Kisner took to social media to comment on the tournament's significance as the final FedEx Cup Fall event. The outcome determined who would secure full PGA Tour playing privileges for the 2025 season by finishing in the top 125 of the standings.
Golfer swinging club at sunset
The most significant changes coming to the PGA Tour include:
- Reduction in players retaining full status from 125 to 100 (starting 2026)
- Conditional status for players finishing 101st-125th
- Fewer Monday qualifier spots in limited-field events
- Reduced maximum field sizes in open tournaments
Golfer swings club on course
The response from players has been mixed. While Peter Malnati called it "a step in the right direction," others like Tommy Gainey criticized the elimination of opportunities. Michael Kim acknowledged the changes were necessary to address slow play issues, despite feeling personally threatened by the reduced number of cards.
Pink-shirted golfer mid-swing
The PGA Tour Policy Board and Player Advisory Council have already approved these changes, which will begin implementation as early as January 2025. These modifications are part of broader efforts to improve the tour's competitive structure and address ongoing concerns about pace of play.