In a spectacular display of golf, Stewart Cink fired a 9-under 63 on Sunday to clinch the Senior PGA Championship by six strokes at Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, Florida. This victory represents Cink's first major title on the senior circuit and his third win of the year on the PGA Tour Champions.
Entering the final round just one shot off the lead, Cink seized control with an extraordinary performance around the turn. His pivotal moment came with an eagle on the par-5 seventh hole, followed by back-to-back birdies to finish the front nine. He then dazzled spectators with a stunning 35-foot birdie on the par-3 11th, showcasing his precise touch and keen understanding of the course's nuances.
During a remarkable five-hole stretch, Cink's play was nothing short of masterful, as he surged to 5-under par, effectively placing the competition in a position to battle for second. He added an up-and-down birdie on the par-5 13th hole and capped his day with an 18-foot birdie at the 14th, underscoring his dominance in the final round.
Ben Crane, making his Senior PGA Championship debut, finished alone in second place after a solid closing round of 68. Meanwhile, South African Keith Horne, who began the day with the lead, faltered with a double bogey on the par-4 12th, ultimately falling back in the standings.
Cink's performance has been consistently impressive since joining the PGA Tour Champions, as he has yet to card a round over par in his 16 rounds played. Along with his three victories this season, he has secured one runner-up finish, with his lowest result being a tie for sixth.
Finishing at 19-under 269, Cink missed breaking the tournament record by just one shot, held by Sam Snead, who finished at 20 under in 1973. Cink's competition on Sunday also included Australian golfers Scott Hend and Steve Allan, both of whom finished with a 71 to tie for third.
Stewart Cink, who is well-remembered for his thrilling playoff victory over Tom Watson at the 2009 British Open, continues to solidify his legacy in the sport, now as a formidable presence on the senior tour. As the year unfolds, golf enthusiasts will be eager to see how Cink capitalizes on his momentum in upcoming tournaments.