Lucas Herbert had just won his first tournament as a professional, he was climbing the world rankings and was getting starts at some of the most prestigious golf events.
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But then the coronavirus pandemic hit, cancelling and postponing most events for the foreseeable future.
However, the 24-year-old European Tour player believes he is in a better position than a lot of other golfers.
"You have to think of all the guys who have just come through Q-school and have had strong starts to the year, it will be hard for a lot of the players to keep their tour cards," Herbert said on the Inside The Ropes podcast.
"What do we do in regards to status for next year?
"That could be a pretty tough debate, but I am fortunate that I am in a position where I don't have to worry about it.
"I've got it pretty lucky. I won earlier in the year which has set myself up for potentially 12 months off."
Herbert secured full European Tour status until the end of 2022 after his victory at the Dubai Desert Classic.
He defeated South African Christian Bezuidenhout in a thrilling play-off.
In addition to the victory, Herbert backed it up with a series of strong finishes in the Middle East and a recent second place at the New Zealand Open.
The strong form catapulted him up the world rankings to a current career-best 64, which helped give him starts in some of the world's biggest events, such as World Golf Championship tournaments.
"It was great getting the start in Mexico (WGC Championship) and being able to free up my schedule so that I could play in New Zealand," he said.
"I was proud of myself to have that win (Dubai) but to also be able to continue with good form and not slump off.
"I carried on with the momentum and confidence."
Herbert's win was celebrated nation-wide, but also on the course where he learnt his craft. Neangar Park Golf Club installed a new sign at its entrance to mark the achievement.
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