Miles Russell wasn't satisfied with simply becoming the youngest player in history to make the roster for a Korn Ferry Tour event.
The 15-year-old American amateur did much better, climbing to 20th at 14-under with a final-round 4-under 66 on Sunday at the LECOM Suncoast Classic in Lakewood Ranch, Fla.
A top-25 finish means Russell earns a spot at next week's Korn Ferry event – the Veritek Bank Championship in Arlington, Texas.
Russell became the youngest player to crack the top 25 in a PGA-sanctioned event.
“It's been a great week. It was a blast,” Russell said, according to PGA Tournament. “Especially for my first time, you might get a few strange looks, like, 'Who's that kid on the range?' But you know, everyone was very nice and very helpful in everything.
“I'm just trying to go with the flow and accept it as it comes to me, and I'm trying to stay calm. I was able to hit good shots at the right time.”
The Florida resident is not eligible to enter the PGA Tour's feeder circuit as a member until 2027, but he certainly made the golf world take notice this week.
Last fall, Russell became the youngest player to win the AJGA Boys Young Player of the Year award, surpassing the record held by Tiger Woods. Russell's year included a seven-stroke victory at the Junior PGA Championship and a three-stroke victory at the Junior Players.
Tim Widing of Sweden finished at 20 under and won a three-man playoff to win the Suncoast Classic. Myles Creighton of Digby, NS was the top Canadian, finishing eighth with 17 under.
