DETROIT, MI — Michigan native and professional golfer Brett White has officially qualified for the PGA TOUR’s Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit after emerging victorious in a dramatic three-man playoff on Monday at Fieldstone Golf Club. The Grand Rapids, MI native and proud Eastern Michigan University alumnus will now fulfill a lifelong dream: competing in a PGA TOUR event in his home state.

White, who represents GameAbove Sports as a pro golfer, adds this milestone to an already inspiring career marked by perseverance, grit, and Michigan pride.

A Michigan Story Years in the Making

For White, this moment is the culmination of years of grit, resilience, and relentless belief. A Michigan Open and Tournament of Champions winner, White has built a legacy across the state’s top events hosted by the Michigan PGA. But this week marks a new milestone.

“I’ve had so many near misses, and I can’t even count the hours I’ve spent preparing for opportunities like these,” said White. “My journey has taken me across continents and through multiple tours, and I’ve qualified for PGA TOUR events before, but this one is different. This time, I get to compete in front of a home crowd—on golf’s biggest stage. It’s something I’ve worked my whole life for.”

He continued, “This one means everything to me. I’ve dreamed of playing the PGA TOUR event in Michigan—first as the Buick Open and now as the Rocket Classic. To finally get that chance—and to do it in Detroit, in front of my family, friends, and so many people who’ve supported me over the years—it’s hard to put into words. I’ve failed a lot trying to get here, but that’s made this moment even sweeter. I’m proud to represent Grand Rapids, East Kentwood High School, Eastern Michigan University, and the entire state this week.”

A Fighter’s Road to the PGA TOUR

White has become known on the national circuit as a fighter. Shortly after turning pro, he developed a brain infection that landed him in the ICU. For a time, he lost the ability to walk and gave little thought to playing golf again.

This week marks the third time he has earned a spot in a PGA TOUR event through the one-day gauntlet known as a Monday qualifier — a feat that underscores both his mental toughness and elite skill under pressure.

Despite holding Korn Ferry Tour status, White has yet to receive a start this season. Undeterred, he has proven his worth by climbing to 11th on the PGA TOUR Americas Fortinet Cup standings, competing week in and week out with a chip on his shoulder and the fire to break through once again.

“This isn’t just about playing in another PGA TOUR event,” said Adam Squire, Director of Sport Operations at GameAbove. “This is about proving to the golf world that Brett White belongs. We couldn’t be prouder to stand behind him.”

Back Home, Ready to Rise

With a natural break in the PGA TOUR Americas schedule, White has spent some well-deserved time at home in Michigan with his wife, Natalie, and their 3-month-old daughter.

“That break gave me a rare moment to reset, refocus, and set my sights squarely on the Rocket Classic Monday qualifier—a goal I’d been quietly working toward for weeks,” said White.

Representing Michigan on Golf’s Biggest Stage

From the practice greens of Eastern Michigan to the fairways of Detroit Golf Club, White’s story is one of perseverance, homegrown talent, and a deep connection to the people and places that shaped him. This week, Michigan will have one of its own to cheer for.