Rico Hoey has emerged as one of golf’s most inspiring stories, rising from near-retirement to securing his PGA Tour card and making waves in the 2024 season. Born in the Philippines and raised in California, Hoey’s journey combines resilience, family support, and a renewed love for the game.
This article dives into his personal life, career milestones, financial achievements, and future prospects.
Rico Hoey’s Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard “Rico” Hoey |
| Nickname | Rico |
| Born | September 19, 1995 (Manila, Philippines) |
| Age | 29 |
| Nationality | Filipino-American |
| Height | 5’10” (1.78 m) |
| College | University of Southern California (USC) |
| Turned Pro | 2017 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $2 million |
| Relationship Status | Dating Megan Mercado |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Rico Hoey’s golf journey began at Goose Creek Golf Club in Mira Loma, California, where he spent countless hours honing his skills alongside future PGA Tour star Sahith Theegala.
As a junior player, he quickly made a name for himself by dominating local tournaments, clinching titles like the 2012 Callaway Junior World Championship and the Junior America’s Cup.
His standout performances earned him a scholarship to the University of Southern California (USC), where he became a collegiate star. During his junior year, he finished second in the NCAA Tournament and shattered records at the 2016 SCGA Amateur Championship with a jaw-dropping 25-under-par score.
Professional career
Rico Hoey’s professional journey began in 2017 when he turned pro and joined PGA Tour Canada, where he quickly made an impact by winning the Freedom 55 Financial Championship—a victory that earned him fifth place in the Order of Merit and a spot on the 2018 Korn Ferry Tour. However, his transition to higher-tier tours proved challenging.
After battling injuries and inconsistent performances, he hit a low point in 2021, even considering quitting golf entirely. A renewed focus on rebuilding his game—both technically and mentally—led to a dramatic turnaround.
In 2023, Hoey clinched his breakthrough Korn Ferry Tour victory at the Visit Knoxville Open, firing a final-round 65 to secure his PGA Tour card for 2024. nHis rookie PGA Tour season showcased flashes of brilliance, including a near-win at the ISCO Championship (lost in a five-way playoff) and a T3 finish at the Shriners Children’s Open, which earned him $413,000.
By the end of 2024, he’d accumulated over $1.77 million in earnings, ranking 86th in the FedExCup standings. Hoey’s aggressive style—marked by 305-yard drives and clutch putting—earned him a reputation as a rising contender.
Notably, he switched his representation from the U.S. to the Philippines in 2024, though timing rules barred him from competing in the Paris Olympics. Despite setbacks, his resilience and improved consistency position him as a player to watch in 2025.
Rico Hoey’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Rico Hoey’s net worth is estimated to be $2 million.
Career Earnings
| Year | Tour | Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | PGA Tour Canada | $42,190* |
| 2018 | Korn Ferry Tour | $15,320* |
| 2019 | Korn Ferry Tour | $28,450* |
| 2020 | Korn Ferry Tour | $9,800* |
| 2021 | Korn Ferry Tour | $12,500* |
| 2022 | Korn Ferry Tour | $87,600* |
| 2023 | Korn Ferry Tour/PGA | $43,206 |
| 2024 | PGA Tour | $1,770,075 |
| 2025 | PGA Tour | $39,026** |
| Total | $1,852,307+ |
Endorsements
Rico Hoey’s rising profile on the PGA Tour has begun attracting sponsorship interest, most notably from ICTSI, a Philippines-based global logistics and infrastructure company. The deal, signed in early 2025, aligns with his decision to represent the Philippines internationally, bolstering his appeal within Filipino-American and Asian markets.
His relatable personality and aggressive playing style position him as an attractive ambassador for golf equipment brands and lifestyle companies seeking to connect with diverse audiences. As his career progresses, expect more collaborations to emerge, particularly if he secures his maiden PGA Tour victory.
Career Stats
| Category | 2024 PGA Tour Stats | Career Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Events Played | 28 | 47 (PGA Tour + Korn Ferry) |
| Cuts Made | 14 | 22 |
| Top 10 Finishes | 3 | 5 |
| Wins | 0 | 2 (1 Korn Ferry, 1 PGA Tour Canada) |
| Scoring Average | 70.1 | 69.8 (best season: 2024) |
| Driving Distance | 305.4 yards | Longest drive: 337 yards (2024) |
| Driving Accuracy | 58.3% | Fairways hit: 62.1% (career avg) |
| Greens in Regulation (GIR) | 67.8% | Best GIR: 72.4% (2024 ISCO Championship) |
| Putting Average | 28.9 per round | 1-putt %: 41.6% (2024) |
FAQs
1. Where was Rico Hoey born?
Rico Hoey was born in Manila, Philippines, on September 19, 1995. He moved to Rancho Cucamonga, California, as a child, where he began playing golf at Goose Creek Golf Club alongside future PGA Tour star Sahith Theegala.
2. When did Rico Hoey turn professional?
Hoey turned professional in 2017 after a standout collegiate career at the University of Southern California. He started on PGA Tour Canada, winning the Freedom 55 Financial Championship in his rookie season.
3. What is Rico Hoey’s net worth?
Rico Hoey’s estimated net worth is $2 million, primarily from PGA Tour earnings ($1.85 million career total) and endorsements. His 2024 rookie season contributed $1.77 million to this total.
4. Has Rico Hoey won any PGA Tour events?
As of March 2025, Hoey has won a PGA Tour event. His closest finish was second place at the 2024 ISCO Championship, where he lost in a five-way playoff.
5. Why did Rico Hoey switch to representing the Philippines?
Hoey switched representation to honor his Filipino heritage and inspire golf growth in the Philippines. Born in Manila, he became the first Filipino to earn a PGA Tour card through his 2023 Korn Ferry Tour performance.
6. What college did Rico Hoey attend?
Hoey attended the University of Southern California (USC), earning Pac-12 Freshman of the Year honors in 2014. He set a USC record with a 25-under-par victory at the 2016 SCGA Amateur Championship.
7. How did Rico Hoey earn his PGA Tour card?
Hoey secured his 2024 PGA Tour card by winning the 2023 Visit Knoxville Open on the Korn Ferry Tour. This victory propelled him to fourth place in the season standings, qualifying him for full-time PGA Tour membership.
8. What are Rico Hoey’s career-best driving stats?
In his 2024 PGA Tour rookie season, Hoey averaged 305.4 yards per drive, ranking 32nd in driving distance. His longest recorded drive during competition was 337 yards at the 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic.
9. Who is Rico Hoey dating?
Hoey is in a long-term relationship with Megan Mercado, who supported him during career challenges. The couple frequently shares travel experiences but maintains a private personal life.
10. Why did Rico Hoey almost quit golf in 2021?
After losing Korn Ferry Tour status in 2021, Hoey considered leaving professional golf and worked maintenance jobs at his childhood course. Mentorship from Goose Creek’s Ross Fisher reignited his passion, leading to a 2023 comeback.
