In an awe-inspiring display of raw talent and determination, reigning US Amateur champion Nick Dunlap, has made a spectacular break through a two-decade long barrier to become the first amateur since 1991 to clinch a PGA Tour title. A nail-biting back-nine showdown on Sunday saw the 20-year-old University of Alabama sophomore capture the American Express tournament, in what can only be described as one of the finest performances in PGA history.
Dunlap, showing the courage and mindset of a seasoned professional, sank the winning par putt from just inside six feet at the 18th hole, posting a respectable two-under-par 70 at the Pete Dye Stadium Course, a prestigious and challenging circuit among the three courses used this week. This feat was achieved despite the daunting clause that as an amateur, Dunlap will walk away from the victory without a monetary reward. A seemingly troublesome stipulation that did not bowel this young champion’s spirit at all.
Securing the winner’s prize of $1.51 million was Christiaan Bezuidenhout, who played commendably to finish at 260 after an impressive closing 65, but ultimately could not outmatch the staggering precision and control held by Dunlap. Demonstrating record-breaking brilliance, he finished at 29-under 259, effectively shattering Patrick Reed’s 72-hole record low winning score set back in 2014.
“I felt this script today was already written,” remarked a euphoric Dunlap, radiating an infectious positivity and contagious confidence. “I was going to give it everything I had whether I shoot 75 or 65 or 70.”
Potently reminiscent of Phil Mickelson’s 1991 victory at the Northern Telecom Open in Tucson, Arizona, Dunlap has made a historical mark as the first amateur to win a US PGA Tour event in nearly three decades. Moreso, he now holds the title as the second-youngest PGA Tour winner in the past 90 years, hot on the heels of Jordan Spieth’s victory at 19 in the 2013 John Deere Classic.
This historic victory was not achieved with ease. Dunlap faced high-intensity challenges including a crucial birdie putt at the par-5 16th to tie the lead with American professional Sam Burns. Despite these adversities, his resilient performance maintained its momentum leading to his extraordinary victory.
“It’s so cool to be out here and experience this as an amateur” expressed an elated Dunlap, reveling in the sheer thrill and accomplishment of the moment. His victory, while elemental in carving his path towards an undoubtedly brilliant future, also impacts the plans for his forthcoming 2024 PGA campaign.
The opportunities now spilling at Dunlap’s feet include the potential to take up PGA Tour membership and gain access to the benefits associated with it – membership accommodations for the 2026 season and entries into the leading professional tournaments, including The Masters and PGA Championship.
The remarkable achievement, twinkling with the promise of a stellar golf career, not only catapults Nick Dunlap’s name into the annals of golf history but also poses an intriguing question to the world of professional sports: What if the system of amateur golf were to adapt to reward such triumphant victories with more than just glory? One thing is sure: Dunlap’s triumph will remain a symbol of unabated potential, dedication, and proof that cash prizes do not define victories. A precedent-setting performance by a rising star we should all watch closely.
