K.J. Choi etched his name in the annals of golf history by becoming the first South Korean to win a Senior Major Championship.
His triumphant performance at The Senior Open Presented by Rolex, held at Carnoustie Golf Links, culminated in a two-stroke victory.
At 54 years old, Choi demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill, starting his final round slowly but gaining momentum at the turn.
He closed with a two-under 70, achieving a ten-under par total, which placed him two strokes ahead of Australia’s Richard Green.
Choi, an eight-time PGA TOUR winner, began the round with a bogey and experienced further setbacks with bogeys at the fifth and sixth holes.
The leaderboard tightened, with several contenders in the mix, including his playing partner Green, Paul Broadhurst, and Stephen Ames, who were all maintaining steady progress.
However, Choi’s experience and tenacity shone through once again. He made crucial shots around the turn, picking up a shot on each side to bring himself to one-over for the day.
He then parred the 11th, entering a critical three-hole stretch that would ultimately determine his fate in the tournament.
Displaying the form that once made him the fifth-ranked player in the world, Choi recorded back-to-back birdies at the 12th and 13th holes.
He then electrified the crowd with a spectacular 30-foot eagle putt at the 14th, establishing a four-shot lead with just four holes remaining.
Choi’s familiarity with Carnoustie, where he secured a share of eighth place in The Open in 2007, proved invaluable.
Reflecting on his victory, Choi said, “It’s unbelievable, today’s game. I prayed all week.
Either way, I started very nervous and some speed was off, which was the difference, and I made three bogeys after six. I kept my attention and prayed.
I felt more comfortable in the swing. I made a bad start, but then seven and eight was better and then made birdie on nine, which made me feel better.
The back-to-back birdies on nine and ten gave me real momentum today.
This event is historical in Korea, first-time champion at The Senior Open. Very proud this week.”
He navigated the final holes with the precision of a seasoned veteran, ensuring his victory despite a closing bogey.
Richard Green of Australia continued his impressive season in the Senior Majors, securing his third top-three finish of the year.
England’s Paul Broadhurst finished in third place, two shots behind Green at six-under par.
Canadian Stephen Ames took fourth place with a three-under-par finish.
Meanwhile, a notable group of seven players shared fifth place at two-under, including former Ryder Cup Captains Thomas Bjørn, Pádraig Harrington, and Bernhard Langer.
Choi’s historic victory not only marks a significant milestone for South Korean golf but also adds an illustrious chapter to his already distinguished career.
