Jackson Koivun delayed his professional move after earning PGA Tour membership.
'I Just Knew': Jackson Koivun Opens Up on Decision To Postpone Turning Pro
June 16 2026, Published 1:58 p.m. ET
Jackson Koivun has opened up about his decision to delay his move to professional golf despite already earning his PGA Tour card. "I could have turned pro after sophomore year, but I just knew I wasn't ready," Koivun said on Monday, June 15.
Jackson Koivun Explains Why He Delayed His Pro Move
Jackson Koivun opened up about his decision to return for another Auburn season.
Koivun had a chance to turn pro after he earned his 20th point at Nationals. His golf was ready for the next level, but he felt he needed more time before he left college.
"I had about a week to make that decision and I just wasn't ready and very happy I made that decision. I think my golf game was there," Koivun said.
"I just think I wasn't ready to leave college and mentally just wasn't ready for the potential, the hardships and the travel and everything like that. But, you know, taking another year to really wrap my mind around that was good for me and now I'm definitely ready."
Jackson Koivun Reveals When He Made His Final Call To Turn Pro
Jackson Koivun used his Auburn experience to grow before his professional journey.
"I kind of made that mental decision right around Christmas time, just sitting down, talking with my parents and after playing in the fall."
His strong run on the PGA Tour helped him feel ready for the next step. Once he accepted his future path, Koivun felt less pressure and his form improved during the spring season.
Jackson Koivun Explains Approach for Demanding Shinnecock Layout
Jackson Koivun secured his PGA Tour card through the Accelerated program pathway.
Koivun learned key lessons from his U.S. Open debut at Oakmont last year. "I've seen a little bit of this golf course and they're different and the same in their own ways. I'm just excited to go out there with a smart game plan and go see what I can do."
"I hadn't played Shinnecock until this week. I played 18 yesterday and nine this morning. You look at the scores and I think there's only been a handful of guys to ever shoot under par for four rounds out here."
Koivun explained that Shinnecock requires a different mindset because of its difficult setup. He believes players must value pars, limit mistakes and stay patient throughout the tournament.
Jackson Koivun Breaks Down Key Differences Between Oakmont and Shinnecock
Jackson Koivun entered the next phase of his career with high expectations.
Koivun said Oakmont creates more pressure from the tee because of its tougher driving areas, while Shinnecock's main challenge comes from its sloped greens.
"From what I've heard, they're shutting off the water soon. A lot of chipping and putting practice these next couple days to get adjusted to the firm, baked-out greens that we've seen in the past in 2018."
Koivun shared that his preparation started before he arrived at Shinnecock. He watched videos from the 2018 U.S. Open to study the course and understand possible strategies. After reaching the venue early, he focused on tee-shot targets, safe miss areas and short-game practice.
"Just doing a lot of chipping and putting work, but understanding that the golf course is going to change some Thursday."