David and Maxwell Ford Set to Make PGA TOUR Debut at The RSM Classic
ATLANTA – Twin brothers David and Maxwell Ford are on the brink of realizing their shared dream of playing on the PGA TOUR. The highly-touted junior golfers, both recruited by top Division I schools, have earned their spots in the field at The RSM Classic, marking their first appearance on the professional circuit.
David Ford, currently ranked fifth in the World Amateur Golf Ranking, secured his spot in the tournament by winning the prestigious 2023 Jones Cup held at Sea Island Golf Club in January. His impressive victory adds to a string of recent successes, including a Walker Cup appearance, a fifth-place finish at the World Amateur Team Championship, ACC Player of the Year honors, and his debut on the PGA TOUR at the Barbasol Championship earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Maxwell Ford, ranked 30th in the World Amateur Golf Ranking, initially aimed to qualify for The RSM Classic through the Monday qualifier but received a sponsor’s exemption shortly before the event.
The Ford brothers, now juniors at the University of North Carolina, have always shared a unique bond and an intense competitive spirit. However, their rivalry is devoid of any resentment, as they ultimately support and root for each other’s success.
“The first thing David says when he closes out matches is, ‘How’s Maxwell doing? Where is he?'” shared Atlanta Athletic Club PGA Professional Chris Moore, who has known the twins since they were young and serves as David’s swing coach. “He was more concerned about that. Maxwell is the same… They’re genuinely pulling for each other.”
David’s recent victories have given him an edge over Maxwell, who is still searching for his first win. However, both brothers are considered tantalizing prospects and are expected to make a significant impact on the professional circuit.
The RSM Classic, which will take place at St. Simons Island, will serve as the culmination of a remarkable year for David Ford. Alongside his win at the Jones Cup, he has also represented the U.S. Team during the Walker Cup at the historic Old Course at St Andrews and earned an exemption to the 2024 Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard through his appearance in the Palmer Cup.
For David, this tournament holds a special significance as it represents the realization of an individual goal that he gets to share with his closest friend and brother. The brothers’ home course, Atlanta Athletic Club, hosted the recent East Lake Cup, where David finished an undefeated week. He expects a similar level of support and enthusiasm from the crowds at The RSM Classic.
“It should be quite the atmosphere,” David remarked, looking forward to the event.
As the Ford brothers prepare to make their PGA TOUR debut, their journey serves as a testament to their talent, dedication, and the unwavering support they provide each other. With their promising skills and shared dream, they may very well become the next wave of sibling stars in the world of professional golf.