The 2025 John Deere Classic (July 2–6 at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois) will feature the game’s rising stars and veteran players competing on one of the most fan-friendly venues on the PGA TOUR. Having given the opportunity in recent seasons to younger and junior players to make the best of, the tournament is proving to be an ever-more critical destination for those wanting to impact the sport’s highest echelon.
This season, African American golfers will be the headline-makers as they strive for a more prominent and successful place at the top of the game. We found three AA golfers who might just make a mark this year.
Kieron van Wyk: The South African Wonderboy
Kieron van Wyk is one of the most exciting young players on the up. Sawyer, who made history as the first Black golfer in 2022 to win the Individual Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Championship and then won it again in 2023, became a household name. He also has the Adrian Stills Award for the best African American college golfer and the Harry Oppenheimer Trophy for his success in the amateurs.
Van Wyk, a current attendee at the College of Charleston, has exhibited poise beyond his years inside and outside the course. The John Deere meet in Illinois could be the turning point from collegiate star to professional contender. He possesses solid ball-striking and can be as mentally tough as they come, so don’t be surprised if he gives the fans and analysts a reason to notice him at TPC Deere Run. F1 betting enthusiasts in Illinois can check some of the top sportsbooks as reviewed by SportyTrader.
Marcus Byrd: Mr. Consistent
Marcus Byrd is familiar with the grind of the pro scene. Byrd, a Middle Tennessee State University graduate, has worked up the mini-Mini-Tours and other developmental events. He has earned the glory for his perseverance and consistency. Byrd has played in a number of PGA TOUR events due to sponsor exemptions, while also serving as a role model for young Black golfers aspiring to reach a higher level of play.
Byrd always plays well when needed, firing his iron shots with deadly precision and sporting a calm persona. This would be perfect for getting more momentum into the second half of the PGA TOUR season; the John Deere Classic would provide him with just the opportunity to show improvement. A few more rounds of decent golf could see Byrd put himself in a position to win the best prize of his career.
Chase Johnson: Power Game
Chase Johnson bursts with raw energy and integrates a mature strategy within course management. Johnson (a Kent State product) has spent time sharpening his playing game on the Korn Ferry Tour and other professional tours. With his distance off the tee and his better putting, he is a threat on a birdie and aggressiveness course like TPC Deere Run.
Johnson still has his big breakthrough to come but his steady progress suggests it may be just a question of time. He can be confident that his name is among golf’s next best, and a solid top ten at the John Deere Classic won’t hurt either.
Representation That Matters
The John Deere Classic has got to get more African American players into the pipeline if professional golf is ever to progress. These players compete at the top level and are pioneers of a more inclusive generation of kids growing up and playing the game. The narrative serves as a simple reminder, though– talent is not conditional, and just like any sport, golf is meant to be inclusive. During the 2025 tournament, fans of every background will be able to unite behind these inspirational players, following their journeys on one of the biggest stages the game has to offer.
