Kevin Yu Wins 2024 Sanderson Farms Championship in Thrilling Playoff
The PGA Tour made its way to Jackson, Mississippi, this week for the Sanderson Farms Championship, the second stop of the 2024 “FedEx Cup Fall” schedule. With a total purse of $7.6 million, the event saw some intense competition, but in the end, it was Taiwan native Kevin Yu who walked away with the win, claiming the first PGA Tour victory of his career.
Yu, a 26-year-old rising star and former Arizona State standout, battled through four rounds of golf before finding himself in a playoff against Beau Hossler. After a tense playoff, Yu emerged victorious, securing the $1.368 million winner’s share and earning a spot in next year’s prestigious Masters Tournament. It was a career-defining moment for Yu, who not only took home the title but also guaranteed his full Tour status for the 2025 season.
The final round at the Country Club of Jackson was nothing short of thrilling. Both Kevin Yu and Beau Hossler finished at 24 under par, forcing the tournament into a playoff. While Hossler fought hard, it was Yu who held his nerve and delivered the decisive shot on the first playoff hole to clinch the victory.
Yu’s win is monumental not just for the payday, but because it puts him on the map as a player to watch. He is now set to compete in two of the early-season signature events in 2025, and with his win in Mississippi, the young golfer has shown that he’s ready to take on the big leagues.
Beau Hossler, the playoff runner-up, took home a hefty $828,400 for his efforts. While Hossler came heartbreakingly close to the win, his performance will give him a much-needed boost heading into the final stretch of the fall season.
Tied for third place were Lucas Glover and Keith Mitchell, both finishing at 22 under par, and each earning $448,400. Glover, a seasoned Tour veteran, and Mitchell, known for his power game, both put on impressive performances but fell just short of making it to the playoff.
Other notable finishes included Alex Smalley and Bud Cauley, who tied for fifth place at 21 under, each earning $293,550. Daniel Berger rounded out the top seven, finishing solo at 20 under par and collecting $256,500.
As the FedEx Cup Fall events continue, players are jockeying for position in the Tour standings. The fall season is particularly crucial for those trying to secure full status for next year. Any player who finishes inside the top 125 in the standings by the end of the fall will guarantee themselves a spot in key 2025 events. For players finishing between 126th and 150th, conditional status will still give them chances to compete, but full status remains the ultimate prize.
Kevin Yu’s victory has ensured that he won’t have to worry about his standing next season. His win not only brings financial rewards but opens the door to more opportunities, including his first-ever appearance at Augusta National.
The 2024 Sanderson Farms Championship was an event full of excitement, with Kevin Yu emerging as a breakout star. His win in the playoff against Beau Hossler marks the start of what could be a very promising career. With the fall season heating up, all eyes will be on Yu as he looks to continue his success into the new year.
Stay tuned as the FedEx Cup Fall schedule rolls on and more players fight to secure their spots for the 2025 PGA Tour season!