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Jackson Koivun Turns Pro and Opens PGA Tour Career at John Deere Classic

His official start signals a move from decorated college team life to the individual demands of the PGA Tour and sets up an expected adjustment period for the 21-year-old.

Overview

  • Koivun made his professional debut this week at the John Deere Classic after formally turning pro following the 2026 U.S. Open.
  • He opened his PGA Tour membership with a 2-over 73 in the first round and said he felt unexpected nerves on the first tee.
  • Koivun earned PGA Tour status through PGA TOUR University Accelerated in 2025 but delayed turning pro and has now forsworn his senior year at Auburn to begin his Tour career.
  • His résumé includes two Ben Hogan Awards, multiple national player-of-the-year honors, co-low amateur at the 2026 U.S. Open and a role in Auburn’s recent NCAA title.
  • Koivun already has competitive PGA Tour experience as an amateur—about 10 starts with eight cuts and a best finish of T4—which should help as he adapts to the lone, performance-driven life on Tour and heeds veteran advice to take time to develop.