How PGA Tournaments Led Graeme Robertson to the PGA Tour and The Open
One year ago, PGA Professional Graeme Robertson made a surprising debut on the PGA Tour, competing alongside players like Ben Griffin, Maverick McNealy, and Andrew Novak. The Scottish golfer was paired with Norman Xiong, a key member of the dominant 2017 Walker Cup team, which also featured Scottie Scheffler and Collin Morikawa.
Robertson, a late bloomer in golf, turned professional just four years ago at 33. Since then, he has secured consecutive Scottish PGA Championships and competed at The Open at Royal Liverpool in 2023.
A wrist fracture prevented him from participating in this year's British Masters at The Belfry and the Nexo Championship at Trump International, where he had qualified through the PGA Play-Offs in Cyprus.
Before his injury, Robertson played on the HotelPlanner Tour, having earned that chance by winning Paul Lawrie's Tartan Pro Tour Order of Merit.
From Working in Sales to Professional Golf
“I was working in sales in a builder's merchant, just selling building material. It was through a member of the golf club, and he knew I was looking for a job. It was meant to be short term but I just ended up staying in it.”
During his twenties, Robertson balanced work and golf, representing the Scottish team for a couple of years. Eventually, juggling both became too difficult, leading to minimal play for about seven years. During this period, he mainly competed in local club events at Glenbervie, where he has been a lifelong member.
Pathway through PGA Tournaments
Robertson explains that his exposure to notable opportunities stemmed from strong performances in various PGA tournaments, which helped him rise onto larger stages like the PGA Tour and The Open.
Key Career Highlights
- Turned pro at age 33
- Back-to-back Scottish PGA Championships winner
- Played in The Open at Royal Liverpool, 2023
- Qualified for British Masters and Nexo Championship before injury
- Earned place on HotelPlanner Tour via Tartan Pro Tour Order of Merit
Robertson's journey reflects determination and seizing opportunities presented by PGA tournaments, despite a late start and setbacks.
Author’s summary: Graeme Robertson’s rise to major golf events underscores how strong performances in PGA tournaments can open doors even when a player turns professional later in life.