Will Zalatoris triumphs in dramatic playoff to claim first PGA Tour win
The American defeated Austria’s Sepp Straka in three extra holes at TPC Southwind – despite not making a birdie
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Will Zalatoris claimed his maiden PGA Tour victory in a dramatic playoff at the FedEx St Jude Championship.
The American defeated Austria’s Sepp Straka in three extra holes at TPC Southwind – despite not making a birdie.
The pair closed out 72 holes tied for the lead on 15 under and matched each other in the playoff by twice making par on 18.
Things then opened up on the par-three 11th, when Zalatoris hit his tee shot onto the rocks courting the green.
However, Straka’s tee shot ended up in the water, leaving a slight window for Zalatoris to strike.
He did just that, sinking a seven-foot bogey putt to clinch the first of what is sure to be many Tour wins.
Speaking to media after his victory, Zalatoris said: “It’s kind of hard to say ‘about time’ when you’re in your second year on Tour but (it’s) about time.
“Considering all the close finishes that I’ve had this year, to finally pull it off means a lot.”
It capped off what had already been a dramatic final round. Cameron Smith’s bid for world number one was dealt a blow before play began on Sunday, when he was assessed a two-shot penalty for playing from the wrong place on the fourth hole in round three.
Victory in Memphis would have propelled the Australian past Scottie Scheffler and to the top of the PGA rankings.