Rafael Campos fights to keep PGA Tour card in Mexico; bared his soul on a very depressing year in golf
A crucial Friday round
Campos opened at the Vidanta Vallarta Course with a one-over 72. On Friday, he recorded two eagles and six birdies, offset by three bogeys, for a seven-under 64 and a place in the weekend rounds.
The score offered some relief, but Campos said he remains far down the standings. He said keeping his job would require a win, a solo second-place finish and other strong results.
Pressure of uncertain status
Campos described the season as very difficult, saying he had worked hard without feeling comfortable over the ball. He also said job security matters greatly to professionals who are not near the top.
With no job secured for next year, Campos called his situation painful and depressing. He said he was not quitting and believed that a strong tournament could quickly change his circumstances.
Bermuda victory still resonates
Two years earlier, Campos won in Bermuda after missing 13 of his previous 14 cuts. His wife’s labor was induced that Monday so he could compete in one of the season’s final events and try to retain his place on Tour.
The victory at Port Royal Golf Course secured a two-year exemption and brought schedule freedom and hope. Campos recalled leaving the champagne-soaked celebration eager to return to his wife and their seven-day-old daughter.
Still looking for a turning point
Campos said golf can turn unexpectedly, even after a long stretch of poor play. He remains hopeful that the work he has put in will begin to show in his results.
He said he hoped to have a couple more days of golf and move up the standings. The Mexico round gave him a positive start as he tries to keep his card.
Key points
- Campos made the cut at the Mexico Open with a seven-under 64.
- He has four tournaments left to retain exempt Tour status.
- His 2022 Bermuda win earned him a two-year PGA Tour exemption.
- Campos said he will not quit despite uncertainty about next season.