Looking ahead, these graduates will now face the tougher competition of the PGA Tour, with structural changes emphasizing depth and performance early in the 2026 season.

Chandler Blanchet from Gainesville, Florida, won his second tournament of the season by shooting a 6-under 66 in the final round, finishing two strokes ahead of the runner-up and securing a spot on the 2026 PGA Tour.

The list of 20 PGA Tour graduates features a diverse group of players from nine countries, including rookies and seasoned competitors, with some, like Neal Shipley and Austin Smotherman, returning to the Tour after previous losses of their cards.

The tournament at French Lick was the final event in the four-event Korn Ferry Tour Finals, which determine PGA Tour eligibility based on a season-long points list accumulated over 26 events.

Blanchet’s season was marked by steady improvement, with notable top finishes including a T4 at the Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship and a T7 at the Memorial Health Championship.

Other notable graduates include Zecheng Dou, who finished T18 after a strong run, and Pontus Nyholm, who narrowly secured his card despite a final-round 75, thanks to his overall performance and a key win earlier in the season.

The season culminated with the Korn Ferry Tour Championship at French Lick Golf Resort, where approximately 75 players competed fiercely for 20 coveted PGA Tour cards, emphasizing consistency and clutch performance.

Among those who secured their PGA Tour cards through strong finishes were Johnny Keefer, Neal Shipley, Austin Smotherman, Hank Lebioda, Adrien Dumont de Chassart, S.T. Lee, and Jeffrey Kang, with some players earning their cards despite challenging final rounds.

Players like Johnny Keefer, a 24-year-old rookie, dominated the season with multiple wins and top finishes, showcasing a fearless, aggressive style that paid off.

The final list of graduates underscores the high stakes and pressure of the season-ending event, with players like Mitchell Meissner narrowly missing out but expressing gratitude for their progress.

The season's top performers also include Adrien Dumont de Chassart, who set a record for the lowest score relative to par in Korn Ferry Tour history, and Austin Smotherman, a three-time winner.

The tournament and season highlighted the intense competition, with players vying for their PGA Tour status through consistent performance, clutch play, and overcoming significant challenges.