Yellamaraju shines with dominant Korn Ferry Tour victory

Sudarshan Yellamaraju of Mississauga, Ontario, took a huge step toward his PGA Tour dream on Wednesday by claiming his first Korn Ferry Tour title. The 23-year-old triumphed at The Bahamas Great Abaco Classic, finishing five shots clear of runners-up Russell Knox and Kensei Hirata. His final-round 64 — the day’s lowest score — shattered the tournament record by seven shots.
Starting with a narrow one-shot lead, Yellamaraju delivered a flawless performance. He didn’t miss a fairway or green, going 5-under on his first nine holes before closing with confidence. “There’s pressure, but I stayed focused and took it one shot at a time,” he said. “When I saw I had a five-shot lead on the last hole, I knew I was fine.”
This win marks the biggest achievement in Yellamaraju’s unconventional journey. Born in India, he moved to Winnipeg at age four and later to the Greater Toronto Area. A self-taught golfer, he turned pro after high school due to limited college scholarship options. After stints on PGA Tour Americas, he earned Korn Ferry status in 2024 but had to fight through qualifying school to secure starts for 2025.
Fellow Canadians celebrated his victory, with Nick Taylor and other pros offering congratulations. Golf Canada coach Derek Ingram praised Yellamaraju’s consistency, short game, and tireless work ethic, calling him a future PGA Tour star.
Making the win even sweeter, Wednesday was his father’s birthday. “It feels special. It all just came together perfectly,” Yellamaraju said.
With only 20 PGA Tour cards available this season, Yellamaraju knows the stakes are high. But with his talent and determination, this is just the beginning of his journey.

Photo – Golf Canada