Joel Dahmen is making an appearance at the Farmers Insurance Open this weekend, despite having lost his PGA Tour card for the 2026 season after concluding the 2025 campaign outside the top 100 in the FedEx Cup standings. While his full status was stripped away, Dahmen is aiming to enhance his standing through this competition.
Best known for his feature on Netflix’s series “Full Swing,” Dahmen’s journey has not been without challenges. His partnership with his long-time caddie, Geno Bonnalie, came to a surprising end during the 2025 season, a moment that resonated deeply with fans.
With his current conditional status for the 2026 season, Dahmen now has the opportunity to secure sponsor exemptions as a fan favorite. Performing well in early-season events could also help him improve his status ahead of the PGA Tour Q-School at the end of the year. The rules have shifted, as only the top 100 players in the revised FedEx Cup standings are granted full eligibility for the upcoming season.
Dahmen’s options are limited in 2026 due to these changes and the new maximum field size of 144 players in full-field events, down from 156. However, noteworthy events like the American Express and the Genesis Scottish Open will maintain a larger size, allowing 156 players to compete.
Dahmen recently finished T-38 at the American Express, putting him in a promising position as he competes at Torrey Pines. Reflecting on his career, he recalled a pivotal moment at the 2024 RSM Classic when he nearly lost full status again but managed to secure his place with a stellar performance.
He shared insights into the mental aspect of golf, stressing the importance of focus and staying on task throughout the entire round. “It’s really hard to kind of go into that head space where you just have to get it done and you’re super focused on what you’re doing at hand,” he explained. Dahmen is dedicated to harnessing this concentration more consistently, recognizing it as vital to his success on the course.
Despite the setbacks, Dahmen’s determination and ability to adapt to challenges reflect a resilience that could pave the way for a successful season ahead. His participation in the Farmers Insurance Open exemplifies his commitment to reclaiming his status and making a mark in the 2026 season.