“I Was Struggling”: Following His $3.6 Million Win at Arnold Palmer Invitational, PGA Tour Pro Reveals the Story Behind His Unique Nickname

This golf season brings many fresh surprises for the sport—rebranded Saudi-backed circuit, along with four new teams. The recent announcements about the PGA Tour 2024 schedule followed it. It is just the beginning of the year, and many more surprises can be expected. However, amidst all that, a professional golfing star has risen, and no one expected that. American professional golfer Kurt Kitayama has become the talk of the town. His marvelous victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational by defeating Rory McIlroy was a glorious occasion for him. Post his victory; he revealed a great deal about his college days, which was unknown to us until now.

The story behind the nickname of PGA Tour Pro Kurt Kitayama

After hoisting the flag of his victory at the grounds of Bay Hill Club, Kitayama attended a press conference. After discussing his golf career, the reporter took everyone back in time. He asked the AP Invitational winner about the nickname ‘The Project’. In college, that was his moniker. The reporter wanted to know how far he was in those times compared to today. Talking about college time brought a smile to the face of the PGA Tour pro; he laughed.

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The 2018 AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open winner said, “Really far.” He further explained the reason behind his unique nickname and said, “Yeah, when I got into school I was struggling, but the guys at the course saw me every day grinding, just working hard, and that’s kind of why they nicknamed me that.” Kitayama explained that his iron game has improved on many levels compared to his college days. And not just that, his short game has also seen a considerable level of improvement. He can now manage himself around the greens better.

It is hard to disagree, as his progress is undeniable. Kitayama reached nine under after making a birdie on the 17th hole. He shot a level-par 72 on the last day, which comprised four birdies, one bogey, and three triple bogeys. Finally, ‘The Project’ has achieved success.

Kitayama gave all the credit to JC Deacon

The 2019 Oman Open winner gave all the credit for his recent victory to the golf coach, JC Deacon. When the pro golfer lost his Korn Ferry Tour card, Deacon stepped in and helped Kitayama gain himself back. The pro said, “I was lost. He’s come in and helped me so much. I wouldn’t be here without him.”

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What are your thoughts about the nickname of the pro golfer? And do you think more victories are waiting for him?