Sudarshan Yellamaraju: The YouTube-Inspired Canadian Rising Star on the PGA Tour
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL – Sudarshan Yellamaraju is quickly becoming a name to watch on the PGA Tour. The 24-year-old Canadian golfer, who learned the game by studying online videos of legends like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, recently finished 5th in a major PGA Tour championship and is earning praise from coaches and fellow professionals.
From YouTube to the PGA Tour
Yellamaraju’s path to professional golf is unconventional. He gained PGA Tour status after finishing 19th on the 2025 Korn Ferry Tour points list. He currently ranks 145th in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR).
Expert Analysis: A Phenomenon
“Sudarshan, he’s a damn decent player. It’s a real phenomenon.”
Benoit Lemieux, instructor of the next generation of the national golf team
Lemieux, who worked with Yellamaraju in the Canadian elite program, highlighted his dedication. “He has this desire to succeed. He eats golf. He’s spectacular and he just wants to do well when he tees off,” Lemieux added.
Recent Performance and Career Highlights
Yellamaraju has demonstrated consistent performance, making 6 of 8 cuts in the 2026 season and earning $1,283,940. He has three top 25 finishes this season. He made his mark on the Canadian circuit in 2022 and 2023, recording four top 10s, which earned him a spot on the PGA Tour in 2024.
Strengths and Potential
Derek Ingram, head coach of the national team, praised Yellamaraju’s game, stating he is very powerful, precise and consistent
. Ingram likewise noted his excellent golf intelligence
. Fellow professional golfer Étienne Papineau believes Yellamaraju is poised for a victory soon.
Key Stats (2026 Season)
- World Rank (OWGR): 145
- SG: Total: 24th
- SG: Putting: 21st
- Driving Distance: 13th
- PTS: 397
FAQ
- Where is Sudarshan Yellamaraju from?
- Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
- When did Sudarshan Yellamaraju turn professional?
- 2021.
- How did Sudarshan Yellamaraju learn to play golf?
- By watching YouTube videos of Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.
Yellamaraju’s story is a testament to the power of dedication and the accessibility of learning resources in the modern era. He represents a new generation of golfers who are reshaping the landscape of professional golf.