While Justin Thomas Enjoys a Thrilling Revival, 5 Players Suffer a Tragic Fate at the $7.6m Ultimate PGA Tour Event

The 2023 PGA Tour season delivered exhilarating highs and heart-wrenching lows for golfers aiming to secure coveted spots in the FedExCup playoffs. With the number of playoff spots reduced to 70, some players found their dreams shattered as their seasons ended prematurely. Let’s take a look at those five stars that may have had their dreams dashed by Justin Thomas‘ late resurgence.

On Friday, the second round of the Wyndham Championship saw Thomas shoot an impressive 64 to keep his playoff dreams alive. But others weren’t so lucky. Amid intense competition, a handful of notable talents missed the cutoff, while others celebrated their accomplishments and playoff berths. Let’s delve into the stories of these players and explore the mix of emotions that characterized their journey on the greens this season.

Justin Thomas’ triumph isn’t a cause for celebration for these 5 Tour stars

Akshay Bhatia (FedExCup standing: 103)

For 21-year-old Akshay Bhatia, the season had been a rollercoaster of emotions. Just two weeks ago, he celebrated his maiden Tour victory at the Barracuda Championship, only to face an unexpected obstacle. Due to a strange rule that denied him non-member points in his co-sanctioned tournament win while playing on special temporary status, he missed out on a playoff spot. And having not made the cut this week after ending both rounds over par and seeing a total score of 3-over par on Friday, he ends his PGA Tour journey early this year.

Nevertheless, Bhatia’s season showcased tremendous promise, with four top-10 finishes in 18 starts. The former phenom, who turned pro at 17 years old, undoubtedly has a bright future ahead.

Austin Eckroat (FedExCup standing: 72)

Austin Eckroat, a member of the 2018 national championship team at Oklahoma State, found himself on the cusp of a FedEx Cup spot but narrowly missed the cut with a 2-over par at the $7.6 million event and the playoffs. Despite an impressive rookie year that included a runner-up finish at the AT&T Byron Nelson, Eckroat’s season ended just outside the top 70.

Eckroat announced himself with his first professional victory on the Korn Ferry Tour at the Wichita Open. This impressive feat took him to the PGA Tour where he aims to further his craft against the very best. With a powerful driving game and impressive short-game ability, we’ll be seeing a lot more of the 25-year-old.

Ben Taylor (FedExCup standing: 73)

Englishman Ben Taylor, who ranked 71st in the FedEx Cup entering the final week, also fell short of making the postseason. The 31-year-old Tour pro showcased consistency with four top-10s in 28 starts, but it wasn’t enough to secure a playoff berth as he missed the cut at the Wyndham Championship, ending his two-round run at 1-over par.

Garrick Higgo (FedExCup standing: 74)

Garrick Higgo, the 2021 Congaree winner in his first non-major Tour start, struggled to recapture his earlier magic. With only two top-10 finishes in 50 starts over the past two seasons, Higgo faced disappointment by narrowly missing the cut this week with his score of one-under par. However, he expressed determination soon after to learn from the experience.

K.H. Lee (FedExCup standing: 77)

K.H. Lee, the victor at the 2021 and ’22 Byron Nelson, couldn’t replicate his past successes this season. Despite ranking inside the top 100 in every category of strokes gained, Lee had to contend with missing the playoffs after heading home early thanks to his total score of an even par!

The 2023 PGA Tour season proved to be a bittersweet journey for many talented players. While some celebrated their triumphs and advanced to the FedEx Cup playoffs, others faced heartache as their seasons ended early.

Also Read: The Ryder Cup Window Is Closing Fast, and Here Are the Last Hopes for Justin Thomas and Others to Make It to the List

The competitive nature of the sport ensures that each season is filled with highs and lows, leaving players with valuable lessons and the determination to strive for success in the seasons to come. As the golfing world looks ahead, these players will undoubtedly use their experiences to fuel their ambitions and write new chapters in their golfing careers.

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