Marcelo Rozo’s Journey to the PGA Tour
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. – The steam on the shower door provided a moment of inspiration for Marcelo Rozo just hours before a critical round. Using his finger, he wrote out his aim: PGA Tour member ‘26.
“I was assuring myself it would happen,” said Rozo, a 36-year-old from Bogotá, Colombia. His path to the final stage of PGA Tour Q-School has been a long journey of over a decade pursuing his dream. “This was my day, the moment I’ve worked my entire life for.”
On Sunday, Rozo emphasized his determination by making a crucial par on the last hole at TPC Sawgrass’ Dye’s Valley course, concluding a tenacious 1-under 69 in windy conditions, which earned him his first PGA Tour card.
When his short putt went in, years of heartbreak faded away, and he celebrated with an emotional uppercut. Tears filled his eyes as he gazed up to the setting sun, dedicating the moment to his late grandfather, Vicente Falaschini, an Argentine golf pro who was his first mentor, and to his older brother Mateo, whose spirit continued to inspire him even after his tragic passing.
After Mateo’s death, Rozo’s other brother Juan lost interest in golf, but Marcelo persevered, moving through the Latin junior circuit and playing at D-II Lynn University before turning professional in 2012. He triumphed three times on the PGA Tour Latinoamerica, including the 2013 Argentina Open, and secured Korn Ferry Tour status in 2019, although a severe wrist injury almost derailed his career.
Despite the challenges, including surgery to repair a wrist tear, Rozo remained hopeful. He and his wife, Manuela, welcomed their first son, Lorenzo, during his recovery. Manuela’s unwavering support kept Rozo focused on his dream. “She’s my rock,” he shared, recalling the tough times when she took on responsibilities while he struggled.
Rozo made a comeback in late 2023, though he faced setbacks before finally achieving full Korn Ferry Tour membership for 2026. With guidance from his idol, Camilo Villegas, and bolstered by determination, Rozo found himself battling for position in Q-School, ultimately realizing his long-held dream.
On the final tee, facing the most challenging shot of his career, Rozo focused on his goal. As he made his final putt, the support from his family, and the memories of those who influenced him, flooded his heart. Rozo hopes that his journey inspires his son, teaching him that “nothing in life comes easy,” but hard work makes dreams attainable.
