Rasmus Højgaard has rapidly emerged as one of the most compelling and talented young golfers on the global stage. A Danish phenom, he’s not just another promising player; he’s a record-breaker, a consistent contender, and a key figure in the next generation of European golf. From his early days as a standout amateur to his rapid ascent on the DP World and PGA Tours, his career has been marked by a maturity and competitive fire that belie his young age.
Early Life, Amateur Career, and the Højgaard Twins’ Dynamic
Born on March 12, 2001, in Billund, Denmark, Rasmus Højgaard’s destiny in golf was intertwined with that of his identical twin brother, Nicolai Højgaard. Their parallel journeys through the ranks of Danish and international golf have been a fascinating subplot to their individual successes. From a young age, the Højgaard brothers pushed each other, cultivating a healthy rivalry that has fueled their respective climbs.
Their amateur careers were nothing short of exceptional. Rasmus first gained international attention in 2016 by winning the Danish International Amateur Championship. A year later, he was a key part of the Danish team that won the European Boys’ Team Championship, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure on a big stage.
The peak of their amateur teamwork came in 2018 at the Eisenhower Trophy, the World Amateur Team Championship. The Danish team, which also included John Axelsen, secured a historic victory, with both Højgaard brothers making birdie on the 72nd hole to beat the favored United States team by a single shot. This win was a definitive moment, signaling to the golf world that these two players were poised for professional greatness.
The Meteoric Rise on the DP World Tour
Rasmus Højgaard turned professional in early 2019, and his transition was nothing short of a thunderclap. In just his fifth career start on the European Tour (now the DP World Tour), he won the 2019 AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open.
At just 18 years and 271 days old, he became the third-youngest winner in the history of the tour, a record previously held by notable players like Matteo Manassero and Danny Lee. This victory was a defining statement and made him the first player born in the 2000s to win on the European Tour.
His success wasn’t a one-off. A year later, he clinched his second win at the 2020 ISPS Handa UK Championship, becoming the second-youngest player to record multiple wins on the tour, again following in the footsteps of Matteo Manassero.
A Historic Double Act
The bond with his twin brother was highlighted in an unprecedented way in 2021. Rasmus won the Omega European Masters in Switzerland, and in a remarkable turn of events, Nicolai won the Italian Open the very next week.
This back-to-back victory for the Højgaard twins was a historic first on the European Tour and a testament to their shared talent and dedication. This achievement became a viral moment in the golf world, drawing widespread attention to the brothers’ unique dynamic.
Consistent Victories and a Growing Resume
Rasmus has continued to build on his early success, adding more titles to his resume. In 2023, he claimed the Made in HimmerLand, winning in his home country of Denmark after an intense six-hole sudden-death playoff. His clutch performance in this high-pressure situation solidified his reputation as a player with nerves of steel.
In 2024, he secured his fifth DP World Tour victory at the Amgen Irish Open, holding off a final-round charge from none other than Rory McIlroy. This win made him the youngest player since José María Olazábal in 1989 to collect five wins on the European Tour, an incredibly prestigious milestone.
Playing Style: Power, Precision, and Poise
Rasmus Højgaard is recognized for a well-rounded and powerful game. He possesses a fluid, athletic swing that generates significant clubhead speed, making him one of the longer drivers on tour. His ability to hit the ball a great distance gives him a distinct advantage on long courses and allows him to attack par-5s with ease.
Beyond his power, his game is marked by a crucial combination of accuracy and a deft touch around the greens. He consistently ranks well in strokes gained statistics, especially in his ball-striking and short game. His putting, while sometimes inconsistent, has proven to be a weapon when it counts most, as evidenced by his victories in multiple playoffs.
One of his most impressive attributes, however, is his on-course demeanor. Despite his age, he appears calm and composed under pressure, rarely showing frustration. This mental fortitude is a key component of his success and a characteristic often seen in seasoned veterans.
Recent Trends and the Future of a Global Star
As of mid-2025, Rasmus Højgaard’s career continues to trend upward. His strong performance on the DP World Tour in 2024 earned him dual membership on the PGA TOUR for the 2025 season, a significant step toward becoming a truly global player. This move places him in direct competition with the best golfers in the world on a regular basis.
In 2025, he has already shown his prowess by achieving solid finishes in several major championships, including a T16 at The Open Championship and a T32 at The Masters. His steady climb in the Official World Golf Ranking reflects this consistency. A major highlight of his 2025 season was securing an automatic spot on Team Europe for the Ryder Cup, a significant career milestone that validates his position among the continent’s elite golfers. His selection is a clear indication that he is now a cornerstone of European golf’s future.
Tips and Lessons from Rasmus Højgaard’s Game
For amateur golfers, there are several key takeaways from Rasmus Højgaard’s success that can be applied to their own game:
Focus on Ball-Striking: Højgaard’s foundation is his powerful and consistent ball-striking. Rather than just focusing on distance, work on hitting the center of the clubface to improve accuracy and control. Use drills that promote a solid, repeatable swing motion.
Develop a Reliable Short Game: Even with immense power, Højgaard’s wins often come down to his ability to scramble and save par. Practice a variety of short-game shots—chips, pitches, and bunker shots—to improve your scoring from around the green.
Embrace a Composed Mindset: Højgaard’s calm on-course demeanor is a huge asset. Regardless of a bad shot or a missed putt, he maintains his composure. Learning to manage emotions on the course can prevent a single mistake from spiraling into a poor round.
FAQs
How many professional wins does Rasmus Højgaard have?
As of mid-2025, Rasmus Højgaard has five professional wins on the DP World Tour.
Is Rasmus Højgaard on the PGA Tour?
Yes, Rasmus Højgaard earned dual membership for the 2025 PGA Tour season after finishing high on the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai Rankings in 2024.
What is the historic achievement he shares with his brother Nicolai?
Rasmus and his twin brother, Nicolai Højgaard, became the first brothers to win in back-to-back weeks on the European Tour in 2021.
What is his best finish in a major championship?
As of late 2025, his best finish in a major championship is a T16 at The Open Championship.
Has Rasmus Højgaard played in the Ryder Cup?
Yes, Rasmus Højgaard secured an automatic qualification spot for Team Europe in the 2025 Ryder Cup.
Final Thoughts
Rasmus Højgaard represents the future of European golf. With a powerful, all-around game, a mature on-course presence, and a proven track record of winning, he is on a trajectory to become a global superstar. His journey, closely followed by that of his twin brother Nicolai, is a captivating story that adds a unique layer to the professional golf landscape. As he gains more experience on the PGA Tour and in major championships, there is no doubt that his name will be a constant fixture on leaderboards around the world for years to come.
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