TCC grind? Jahns is built for this

MANILA — As the 2026 golf season tees off, Keanu Jahns is betting on mindset over mechanics in his quest to capture a maiden title at The Country Club (TCC) Invitational, which starts Tuesday, Jan. 27, at the formidable TCC layout in Laguna.

“Mentally, I’m not really trying to do anything different,” said Jahns. “Staying present and being committed on the course has been working for me, so I’ll be sticking to that.”

The Filipino-German standout enters the ₱6.5-million championship riding the momentum of a breakout 2025 season that saw him win three events, including a commanding performance at the season-ending Match Play Championship—also held at TCC—where he dismantled Guido van der Valk in the final.

Before that, Jahns notched back-to-back victories at Caliraya Springs and Bacolod, proving his ability to dominate in both stroke play and match play formats. That versatility, coupled with his length off the tee, sharp iron game, and consistent putting, has positioned him as a leading contender in this week’s 72-hole event.

“My goal this year is to have a good finish in the OOM Top 3,” he said. “But with the way I’ve been playing, winning the OOM would be nice.”

Despite finishing second in the 2025 Order of Merit, just behind three-time TCC Invitational champion Angelo Que, Jahns sees the new season as a fresh opportunity. The TCC Invitational, held annually in honor of ICTSI founder Don Pocholo Razon, presents one of the most prestigious stages on the local circuit to launch a title run.

Ahead of the main competition, Jahns and the rest of the elite 30-man field participated in Monday’s pro-am tournament, an 18-hole warm-up pairing professionals with guest amateurs of event sponsor ICTSI. The round allowed players to test club selections, read greens under competitive conditions, and refine strategies before the championship begins.

Jahns’ psychological advantage could be key this week. His previous success at TCC, particularly in high-stakes match play, has bolstered his confidence and familiarity with the demanding course.

“It’s not all about producing good, solid results,” he said. “With the way I played last year, I’m very confident in my game, but to play my best golf, I can’t be too oriented on results. If I take it one shot at a time and maintain a solid mindset, the results will follow.”

That mindset will be crucial on a layout known for its punishing conditions and dramatic swings, especially with seasoned champions like Miguel Tabuena, Tony Lascuña, Frankie Miñoza, Micah Shin, and van der Valk also in the field.

In an event where leads are often short-lived and outcomes hinge on nerves and final putts, Jahns’ form and focus could finally deliver the TCC breakthrough he’s long worked toward—possibly signaling the start of an even bigger year for one of Philippine golf’s rising stars.