PGA TOUR
Pavon Makes History Winning Farmers Insurance Open
Matthieu Pavon etched his name into history as the first Frenchman to secure a victory on the PGA Tour after a thrilling conclusion to the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines, California. The 31-year-old from Toulouse sunk a clutch 8-foot putt for a dramatic birdie, at the final hole clinching a narrow one-shot win. Pavon couldn't contain his joy. The PGA Tour rookie raised his arms in jubilation, shouting with elation before embracing his caddie. This final birdie on the back nine not only secured his triumph but also spared him from a potential playoff.
Pavon claimed the lead on the 12th hole during the final round and maintained a two-stroke advantage until a late hiccup on the 17th hole, where he missed a 3-foot putt for a bogey. Facing a daunting situation on the par-5, 541-yard 18th hole with his drive landing in a sand trap and his second shot finding the left rough, Pavon showcased his resilience. His brilliant third shot, landing within 8 feet of the hole, set the stage for the triumphant putt that sealed his historic victory. The victory on US soil came in just his 11th start on the PGA Tour. The Frenchman collected his maiden DP World Tour title in October last year at the Acciona Open de Espana.
Finishing with a 3-under 69 in the final round, Pavon reached a total score of 13 under.
Denmark’s Nicolai Hojgaard claimed solo second place at 12-under after his final round 2-under 70.
Americans Nate Lashley (67) and Jake Knapp (69) took a share of third place with Germany’s Stephen Jaeger (72) another shot further back at 11-under.
Aaron Baddeley was the best-placed Australian. The 42-year-old finished in a tie for 37th place at 4-under after his final round 2-under 70.
Final Scores
1. Matthieu Pavon -13
2. Nicolai Hojgaard -12
T3. Nate Lashley -11
T3. Jake Knapp -11
T6. Kevin Yu -10
T6. Beau Hossler -10
T6. Tony Finau -10
Australians
T37. Aaron Baddeley -4
T43. Min Woo Lee -3
MC. Jason Day
MC. Harrison Endycott
Image credit: Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images
