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CARLSBAD, Calif. — Jackson Koivun has an argument to be considered the best amateur golfer of this century.
He's a two-time Fred Haskins Award winner. He's also a two-time Ben Hogan Award recipient. And on Wednesday, Koivun became a two-time national champion, as the junior helped Auburn capture its second title in three years, knocking off UCLA 3-0 at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa.
The biggest question in the aftermath of Auburn's victory was around Koivun's status. He has a year left of college golf, if he chooses to return, but he also has a PGA Tour card in his pocket and can turn pro and join the Tour immediately, too.
Golf Channel's Emilia Doran asked Koivun what his plans were in the aftermath of the Tigers' celebration on the 18th green.
"We'll see," Koivun said. "We're gonna get back to Auburn and recoup..."
That's when his head coach, Nick Clinard, chimed in and said, "One more year," which brought a good chuckle from Koivun.
"But it's been so much fun this year with these guys, especially the freshman," Koivun continued. "They're working their tails off and it showed this week. More than happy for me and my team. War Eagle."
Koivun has not publicly announced whether he plans to turn pro. He just completed an incredible season that saw him win six times and sweep all of the major postseason awards with a few more to be announced.
He's expected to play in the U.S. Open in two weeks at Shinnecock Hills as an amateur via an exemption he earned last year winning the McCormack Medal. However, he could turn pro before that and try to qualify next Monday in final qualifying. He also has a spot in the Open next month, given he remains an amateur.
If Koivun did return to Auburn next year, the Tigers would likely be favorite to repeat as champions. However, his amateur resume is about as accomplished as it can be, and if he were to turn pro, there's a great chance he would have success right away.
As for his announcement, it's time to wait and see.
This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Will Jackson Koivun turn pro after leading Auburn to national title?
Continue reading...
He's a two-time Fred Haskins Award winner. He's also a two-time Ben Hogan Award recipient. And on Wednesday, Koivun became a two-time national champion, as the junior helped Auburn capture its second title in three years, knocking off UCLA 3-0 at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa.
The biggest question in the aftermath of Auburn's victory was around Koivun's status. He has a year left of college golf, if he chooses to return, but he also has a PGA Tour card in his pocket and can turn pro and join the Tour immediately, too.
Golf Channel's Emilia Doran asked Koivun what his plans were in the aftermath of the Tigers' celebration on the 18th green.
"We'll see," Koivun said. "We're gonna get back to Auburn and recoup..."
That's when his head coach, Nick Clinard, chimed in and said, "One more year," which brought a good chuckle from Koivun.
"But it's been so much fun this year with these guys, especially the freshman," Koivun continued. "They're working their tails off and it showed this week. More than happy for me and my team. War Eagle."
Koivun has not publicly announced whether he plans to turn pro. He just completed an incredible season that saw him win six times and sweep all of the major postseason awards with a few more to be announced.
He's expected to play in the U.S. Open in two weeks at Shinnecock Hills as an amateur via an exemption he earned last year winning the McCormack Medal. However, he could turn pro before that and try to qualify next Monday in final qualifying. He also has a spot in the Open next month, given he remains an amateur.
If Koivun did return to Auburn next year, the Tigers would likely be favorite to repeat as champions. However, his amateur resume is about as accomplished as it can be, and if he were to turn pro, there's a great chance he would have success right away.
As for his announcement, it's time to wait and see.
This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Will Jackson Koivun turn pro after leading Auburn to national title?
Continue reading...
