Pendrith Clinches Maiden PGA Title with Dramatic Final Hole Birdie at CJ Cup Byron Nelson

In a thrilling conclusion at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, Taylor Pendrith secured his first-ever US PGA Tour victory by sinking a birdie on the closing hole, edging out Ben Kohles, who endured a heart-wrenching runner-up finish after a bogey on the final green.

The tension reached its peak as Kohles, vying for his maiden PGA title after leading the Korn Ferry Tour standings last season, surged ahead with consecutive birdies on the 16th and 17th holes, nudging one stroke ahead of overnight leader Pendrith. Kohles’s impressive 19-foot putt on the par-three 17th seemed to set the stage for a triumphant finish.

24hscore

However, Pendrith, displaying remarkable composure under pressure, responded with par saves on both the 16th and 17th. With Kohles facing difficulties on the 18th, Pendrith seized the opportunity, landing his second shot 41 feet from the pin and calmly sinking a three-footer for birdie. His flawless performance culminated in a four-under-par 67, resulting in a total score of 23-under 261.

Reflecting on the dramatic turn of events, Pendrith expressed his mixed emotions, acknowledging Kohles’s exceptional performance while reveling in his own historic achievement. “It’s crazy,” Pendrith remarked. “I empathize with Ben for his bogey. He played exceptionally well today, but I’m absolutely thrilled. It’s truly amazing.”

For Kohles, the bogey on the final hole not only marked his first of the day but also marred an otherwise stellar round. His unfortunate third shot from the greenside rough compounded the setback, ultimately conceding the victory to Pendrith.

In his post-round remarks, Kohles admitted to feeling the sting of disappointment, lamenting the missed opportunity. However, he remained resolute in his determination to bounce back from the setback, emphasizing the positives of his performance throughout the tournament.

Pendrith’s triumph, achieved after 74 tour starts, signifies a monumental milestone in his career, with his previous best finish being a runner-up position in Detroit in 2022.

Despite Kohles’s relentless pursuit, highlighted by a remarkable streak of three consecutive birdies, Pendrith maintained his composure, reclaiming the lead with crucial birdies at the ninth and 10th holes.

Meanwhile, English amateur Kris Kim, at just 16 years old, made waves by becoming the youngest player to make a PGA Tour cut since 2015. Although he closed with a over-par round, Kim expressed gratitude for the invaluable experience, affirming his eagerness to return to tournament golf.

In a riveting display of skill and determination, Pendrith emerged triumphant, etching his name into PGA Tour history with a captivating performance at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson.