Amateur Sensation Jackson Koivun Brings Walker Cup Momentum to Procore Championship

Just four days after hoisting the Walker Cup trophy with a dominant U.S. team, amateur golf phenom Jackson Koivun is already making waves on the PGA TOUR. The Auburn Tiger and top-ranked amateur fired a superb 5-under 67 in his opening round at the Procore Championship in Napa, placing him in fifth in the morning wave.

Koivun, 20, showcased the same poise and skill that helped him earn a team-high three points at Cypress Point. Despite a rushed practice round where he only played 15 holes, the California native was in top form. He carded an impressive eight birdies, tied for the second-most in the field, and was fifth in Strokes Gained: Total for his wave. His ball striking was particularly sharp, as he hit 16 of 18 greens in regulation. A few wayward drives and a three-putt on the 14th hole resulted in his three bogeys, but his overall play was a testament to his ability to adapt quickly.

"I'm pretty tired right now," Koivun admitted after his round, but his performance showed no signs of fatigue. "I was pretty happy with my putting and my iron game was pretty solid."

The Procore Championship is Koivun's ninth PGA TOUR start and marks the next step in a remarkable career. He earned his spot in the field with a T5 finish at the Wyndham Championship, his highest TOUR finish to date. Koivun has already secured his PGA TOUR card through the PGA TOUR University Accelerated program, a historic achievement that saw him become the first player to sweep all four major collegiate awards in a single season. However, he has chosen to defer his pro membership to return to Auburn for his junior year, a decision that speaks to his commitment to team golf and continued development.

"It's just a completely flipped mindset," Koivun said of the transition from team events to the professional TOUR. "You can gain a lot of momentum from teammates in these team events, where this is very solo."

With three top-15 finishes in his six 2025 PGA TOUR starts, Koivun is quickly proving he belongs at the highest level. His goal for the upcoming collegiate season? "Try to get as many wins as I can." If his performance in Napa is any indication, that goal is well within reach.