Rising Stars Make PGA TOUR Debuts at 2025 RBC Canadian Open
Rising Stars Make PGA TOUR Debuts at 2025 RBC Canadian Open
The 2025 RBC Canadian Open officially tees off today, June 5, at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, Ontario — and all eyes are on three of the PGA TOUR’s newest members: Luke Clanton, Gordon Sargent, and David Ford. Each player will make their professional debut this week, bringing significant collegiate pedigrees and rising-star potential to one of the TOUR’s oldest events.
Luke Clanton: The Headliner Joins the Big Leagues
Clanton arrives in Ontario with perhaps the most buzz of any rookie in recent years. The 21-year-old Florida State standout became the first amateur since Jack Nicklaus in 1961 to notch three top-10 finishes on the PGA TOUR in a single season, including solo second at both the John Deere Classic and RSM Classic.
Clanton turned professional after earning PGA TOUR status through the PGA TOUR University Accelerated program — a pathway that rewards elite amateur performance. He officially kicks off his pro career at the RBC Canadian Open and wasted no time making headlines: in his opening round, he drained a 35-foot eagle putt on the 18th hole to close out his front nine.
Gordon Sargent: Ready After the Wait
Vanderbilt alum Gordon Sargent also makes his long-awaited professional debut this week. Though he earned status through PGA TOUR University last year, Sargent chose to defer for a season to complete his collegiate career. Known for his power and polished game, Sargent spent the past year preparing for this moment, aided by advice from PGA TOUR mentors and veterans.
He now enters the field in Caledon with full PGA TOUR membership and a wave of anticipation surrounding what’s next for the former NCAA individual champion.
David Ford: From Chapel Hill to the TOUR
Another decorated collegiate star, David Ford of North Carolina, also tees it up this week as a PGA TOUR member. Ford was the No. 1 finisher in the PGA TOUR University Class of 2025, earning him immediate TOUR status following a decorated career with the Tar Heels.
His debut at the RBC Canadian Open represents not just a personal milestone, but the beginning of what many expect to be a long and successful professional journey.
About the Tournament
Dates: June 5–8, 2025
Location: TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, Caledon, Ontario
Par/Yardage: Par 70 / 7,389 yards
Broadcast Info:
Golf Channel: 3–6 p.m. ET (Thu/Fri)
CBS: 3–6 p.m. ET (Sat/Sun)
ESPN+: Live coverage beginning 6:45 a.m. ET daily
As the 2025 RBC Canadian Open gets underway, all three newcomers — Clanton, Sargent, and Ford — look to make a statement on one of the PGA TOUR’s biggest stages. Their presence not only symbolizes a new wave of talent, but also affirms the strength of college golf as a direct pipeline to the game’s highest level.
Sources:
Reuters – Clanton Set for Debut
PGA TOUR Video – Clanton Eagle
PGA TOUR University Class of 2025
PGA TOUR – Sargent on Guidance
