After calming his nerves with three beers, 27-year-old Golf Galaxy employee Nick Bienz qualified for his first PGA Tour event, shooting a 7-under 65 and surviving an eight-hole playoff.

Nick Bienz, who funds his golf aspirations by working at a retail store, clinched a spot in the Rocket Mortgage Classic after an unexpected, beer-fueled qualification round. Overcoming his nerves, he birdied a crucial putt and emerged victorious in an epic eight-hole playoff. Now, the rookie finds himself among golf's elite, competing for a share of a $9.2 million purse. His underdog story, highlighted by viral social media support and newfound fame, sets the stage for an unforgettable debut.

As Bienz strode into The Orchards Golf Club in Michigan, he likely didn't expect to wind up in an extra-long playoff round, let alone clinch a spot for a major PGA Tour event. The Golf Galaxy employee hailing from New Haven, Indiana, however, had a different kind of 'swing oil' in mind, polishing off three beers to steady his trembling nerves before teeing off.

"I was nervous as heck," Bienz confessed on social media after securing his spot. "Those beers definitely helped settle me down." Steady his nerves they did, as Bienz went on to shoot an impressive 7-under 65, sinking a nail-biting 12-foot birdie on the 18th hole that pushed him into a 5-player playoff for the last two qualifying spots at the Rocket Mortgage Classic.

What followed next could be described as a marathon, with Bienz enduring eight grueling playoff holes. Finally, on the eighth hole, Bienz cemented his victory, earning his golden ticket to the upcoming tournament at the Detroit Golf Club.

In a field of 156 accomplished golfers, Bienz's participation is both a commendable achievement and a whirlwind adventure. Competing for a purse of $9.2 million, Bienz is aware of the stakes but seems grounded in gratitude. 'This is the craziest day of my life, and I'm thankful for everyone who supported me,' he shared online.

Nick's journey might have seemed unlikely to many, particularly since he's predominantly competed in state-level events and has made several unsuccessful attempts to qualify for the Korn Ferry Tour. His nine-to-five job at Golf Galaxy not only funds his professional ambitions but also provides him with practice facilities to improve his skill set. Fortunately for Nick, practicing in-store with golf simulators appears to have paid off.

Interestingly, Bienz had not planned to stay beyond Monday, underestimating his chances of qualifying. This resulted in a last-minute shopping spree where he had to buy essentials like underwear and socks upon finding out he had indeed qualified.

However, viral fame soon followed thanks to coverage by Monday Q Info on social media, including a heartwarming video of Bienz celebrating at a bar. Among the well-wishers was his emotional fiancée, who couldn't help but exclaim, "Nick, you're famous!" after his anecdote and compelling story took the internet by storm.

Further adding to his newfound celebrity status, Nick received a $500 donation from Garage Beer, a gesture of support that will undoubtedly help with his unplanned extended stay and participation in the tournament. Other supporters later chimed in with their congratulations, including four-time PGA Tour champion Kevin Kisner, who humorously requested to be paired with Bienz for the event, perhaps hoping some of Nick's newfound luck would rub off on him.

With barely a moment to catch his breath from this whirlwind of events, Bienz will tee off at 2:22 p.m. ET on Thursday. He will be sharing the course with Rafael Campos and Anders Albertson, two respectable names in the golfing world. Let's hope he remembers to catch his breath this time!

Bienz even snagged a spot on 'The Pat McAfee Show', where he shared his surreal journey from nervous qualifier to PGA Tour participant. Ryan French, known as Monday Q Info, added to the coverage with a video posted on X, capturing the behind-the-scenes moments of Bienz's unexpected rise to fame. Who knew three beers and some golf could change a life so quickly?

Now standing on the brink of his first-ever PGA Tour event, Nick Bienz is well aware of the excitement surrounding his journey. From selling golf clubs at Golf Galaxy to qualifying for a PGA Tour event—his path has captivated the community. Who knew the secret to qualifying was hidden somewhere between the aisles of golf equipment?