Rayhan Thomas sets sights on PGA Tour Card after strong performance in Georgia qualifier

Dubai-born golfer Rayhan Thomas is set to take the next major step in his career after securing a spot in the Final Stage of the PGA Tour Qualifying School presented by Korn Ferry which will be held on December 12th – 15th over four rounds in Florida and played over two courses - TPC Sawgrass Valley and Sawgrass CC, E/W in Ponte Vedra.

Following an impressive performance in Georgia, where he battled blustery winds and chilly temperatures, Rayhan shot a final round 68, finishing with a total of 13-under-par 275, enough to clinch a top-12 finish and a coveted place in the next stage of the qualifiers.

The 25-year-old's journey to the Final Stage is a testament to his resilience and mental toughness. Competing at the Landings Golf &; Athletic Club, Rayhan remained steady throughout the challenging week, turning in rounds of 68, 68, 71, and 68, despite the harsh weather conditions.

“This is the next step in my career,” Rayhan, told Khaleej Times, reflecting on the milestone. “It’s been a long road, and I’m excited to see what’s next. I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received back home in Dubai, and I’m giving it my all in Florida.”

Rayhan’s performance in Georgia wasn’t just about battling the elements - it was a display of his impressive skill and resilience.

From solid driving to strong iron play, Rayhan made the most of every opportunity, including a pivotal 45-foot putt to save par and a 12-foot birdie on the back nine to keep his hopes alive.

His ability to stay composed and focused despite the pressure sets him up for future success as he now looks ahead to the ultimate challenge at the Final Stage.

With his PGA Tour card within reach, Rayhan's journey is just beginning, and his eyes are firmly set on the next chapter of his golfing career.

As many as 20 players and ties progressed from the 82-strong field on 12 under par.

“It was a tough week,” Rayhan said. “The wind was really strong, and the cold made it even harder to stay sharp. But I kept my head in the game and focused on my strategy. I knew that if I stuck to my plan, I could make it through.

“I played really solid golf in my final round. I hit my irons well and putted great on the back nine especially – and drove well all week. It was a tough day with the weather, it was eight or nine degrees when we teed off and only got up to a high of around 13 degrees later in the day.

“The winds were blustery at times, 15 - 20 mph on the tree-lined course, which made scoring tricky. I sank some good putts, a 45-footer on 12 to save my par, a 12-footer on 13 for birdie and a two-putt birdie on fourteen,” added 25-year-old Rayhan.

“There were no scoreboards on the golf course and we asked an official on the 17th tee where I stood, as I thought I may need a birdie on the last. I missed a six-footer on the last – but I am delighted I made it through.”

As a Dubai-born golfer, Thomas has always had big dreams, and his qualification for the Final Stage is a major milestone.

Commenting on what he will do until Final Stage Qualifying School starting in a couple of weeks or so, he responded:  “It has been a long week, so I will rest and recuperate over the next few days, have some fun with the guys and be ready for another big week in December.”

The summary for the week saw Thomas have: 20 birdies, 46 pars, five bogeys and one double in his 72-holes.

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