Ryan Ruffels is making his return to the PGA Tour at the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic, having last competed on the Tour in 2022 at the Shriners Children’s Open. This time, Ruffels anticipates a different experience due to his success as a YouTube creator.
The 28-year-old Australian secured his place in the event by winning The Q, a creator-led qualifier at Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club. Ruffels was once ranked 13th in the world as an amateur before turning professional in January 2016, debuting at the Farmers Insurance Open.
From YouTube Creator to PGA Tour Return
Ruffels acknowledged the increased attention surrounding his return to the Tour. He stated his social media has been very active leading up to the event, a contrast to his previous experience at the Shriners where he went under the radar.
Ruffels has spent the last decade competing on the PGA Tour Americas and the Korn Ferry Tour. However, he believes social media has had the biggest impact on his game, providing a route back into competitive golf.
Ruffels launched his YouTube channel, which now has over 66,000 subscribers, after identifying an opportunity in social media. He felt confident in his ability to succeed on the platform, knowing the right people to help him.
Leveraging Social Media for Golfing Opportunities
Ruffels stated that he maintained his game while showcasing it on YouTube. He also recognised the financial challenges of pursuing a professional golfing career. Ruffels hoped that YouTube could provide future opportunities in professional golf.
“As anybody chasing the professional golf dream knows, it’s a tough one,” he said. “When you’re not right at the upper echelons of the game, it’s expensive too. I kind of wanted to use YouTube as maybe an avenue down that down the road I could give myself opportunities in professional golf. Here we are.
“I guess that plan is somewhat falling into place.”
Ruffels’ Performance at The Q
Ruffels used his 20 career PGA starts to his advantage at The Q. Grant Horvat initially led with four consecutive birdies. However, Ruffels’ bogey-free back nine ultimately secured his victory in the two-round event. The tournament began with match play contests at Rivers Edge Golf Club, which was then reduced to the four players that advanced to Pawleys. Ruffels also played a round at Dune.