First PGA Tour victory achieved in just 24 days after turning professional
American golfer Jackson Koiven, aged 21, won the 3M Open, held on July 26, 2026, at the TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota. This was his first PGA Tour victory, achieved just 24 days after turning professional and in his third tournament as a professional player.
According to the official summary of the PGA Tour event, Koiven finished with a total score of 25 under par, 259 strokes, defeating world-class player Scottie Scheffler by 3 strokes. The score of 259 is a new 72-hole minimum score record for the 3M Open.
Round 3: The turning point of the 61 Taro match
Koiven recorded scores of 64 on the first day and 68 on the second day of the tournament, before shooting a remarkable 10-under-par score of 61 in the third round. This performance propelled him to the sole lead, and he began the final round with a 3-stroke lead.
On the final day, he recorded a score of 66 with 5 birdies. While Scheffler scored 63 in the final round, Koiven remained steady throughout the back nine and secured his victory by sinking a par putt on the 18th hole.
- Tournament: 2026 3M Open.
- Location: Blaine, Minnesota, USA, TPC Twin Cities.
- Scores for each round: 64-68-61-66.
- Final score: 25 under par, 259 strokes.
- Winning margin: 3 strokes ahead of Scottie Scheffler.
Winner’s prize money and its significance in the PGA Tour
According to a PGA Tour announcement, Koiven won the 3M Open and earned a prize of $1,580,004 and 500 FedExCup points. Immediately after the victory, his FedExCup ranking improved from 194th to 70th, qualifying him for the playoffs.
In the 2026 John Deere Classic, which was his professional debut, he failed to make the cut. However, in the following ISCO Championship, he finished tied for 10th place, and he won in his third appearance. It is noteworthy that he demonstrated his competitiveness immediately, despite a short adaptation period.
The Auburn University ace who dominated college golf
Koiven played for Auburn University for three seasons, becoming a prominent figure in American collegiate golf. According to Auburn University records, he achieved a total of 11 wins and an average score of 68.89. In the 2025-26 season, he set a new school and NCAA record with an average score of 68.20.
He played a crucial role in the Auburn team’s championships in the NCAA team competition in 2024 and 2026. Furthermore, he won the Ben Hogan Award, the Fred Haskins Award, and the Jack Nicklaus Award in both 2024 and 2026, becoming the first player to win all three major “Player of the Year” awards in college golf twice.
From 2024 to 2026, he was selected as the Southeastern Conference Player of the Year for three consecutive years. In 2025, he also received the Mark H. McCormack Medal, which is awarded to the number one male player in the world amateur golf rankings.
Rising stars discovered through the PGA Tour direct qualification system
Koiven finished in a tie for 4th place at the 2025 NCAA Championship stroke play tournament, achieving a score of 20, which meets the criteria for the PGA Tour University Accelerated program . He became the third player to secure tour eligibility through this program, but instead of immediately turning professional, he remained at Auburn University for one more season.
After completing the 2026 NCAA season, Koiven, who competed in the US Open, his final amateur tournament, declined a senior season and accepted membership in the PGA Tour. His decision to turn professional after gaining sufficient experience at the collegiate level quickly bore fruit with a victory at the 3M Open.
Reasons why Jackson Koiven is considered a rising star
Koiven’s strengths lie not only in her long-distance power and precise iron play, but also in her ability to maintain her game even under pressure. At the 3M Open, she completed the final 36 holes without any visible strain, despite being pursued by world number one, Scheffler, and the intense atmosphere of the gallery.
The growth process is clearly evident, from his university stage performances to his amateur world championship and his first PGA Tour victory. His victory in only his third professional appearance demonstrates that Koiven has moved beyond being a promising player and has entered the ranks of the next generation of PGA Tour competitors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Jackson Koiven?
Jackson Koiven is an American professional golfer who graduated from Auburn University. During his college years, he won the major Player of the Year award twice. He turned professional in 2026 and is currently competing on the PGA Tour.
How many strokes did Jackson Koiven record at the 3M Open?
Koiven won the 2026 3M Open, recording scores of 64, 68, 61, and 66 in each round, for a final total of 25-under par, 259 strokes.
When did Jackson Koiven turn professional?
Koiven announced his transition to professional golf in June 2026, and after competing in the US Open as his final amateur tournament, he accepted membership in the PGA Tour.
How did Jackson Koiven obtain a PGA Tour card?
He secured a PGA Tour card by achieving a score of 20 in the PGA Tour University Accelerated program, which evaluates the performance of university, amateur, and professional players.
What is the winner’s prize money for the 3M Open?
Koivun won the 2026 3M Open, receiving $1,584,000 in prize money and 500 FedExCup points.
