Youngest PGA Tour winner in 95 years claims title in Mexico

Blades Brown, 19, became the youngest player to win a PGA Tour event in 95 years on Sunday. The victory came at the World Wide Technology Championship at El Cardonal at Diamante in Los Cabos, Mexico. Brown closed the tournament with a 9-under 63 to beat Ben James on the second playoff hole.

The result marks a rare achievement in professional golf history. The previous record holder was Charles Kocsis, who won the Michigan Open in 1931 at age 18. That event was considered a regional tournament in the early years of the PGA. Brown turned professional two years ago while still a junior in high school.

James entered the final round with a four-shot lead. He lost ground during the day but saved the title with a clutch eagle on the par-5 18th hole. James hit a 285-yard shot into 20 feet and made the putt to force a playoff. It was the only putt he made all day longer than 15 feet. James said he had a good line on the shot and played the best he could.

The playoff unfolded on the 18th hole. On the first extra attempt, both players had approach shots within 3 feet of each other. Both narrowly missed eagle opportunities. They returned to the tee box and drove next to each other. Both drives came up short of the green. James pitched to 8 feet, while Brown’s pitch stopped 3 feet from the hole.

James missed his 8-foot birdie putt, which grazed the right edge of the cup. Brown sank his 3-footer to win. Brown said he had a feeling the putt would go in. He noted that he loves the game and is excited for what comes next.

Brown overcame a seven-shot deficit in the final round. He made three consecutive birdies on the back nine to share the lead. He hit a pitch for birdie on the final hole to finish at 23-under 265. Michael Kim, who played with Brown, finished one shot back after birdie from 12 feet.

The win grants Brown a two-year exemption on the PGA Tour. This status qualifies him for the elite Championship Series when the PGA Tour’s new model begins in 2028. It also secures his spot in the PGA Championship next year. Brown earned his tour card this year by finishing in the top 20 in Korn Ferry Tour points.

James remains a top prospect despite the loss. He has five top-five finishes and two runner-up results in 13 starts since turning pro. He was the No. 1 player in the PGA Tour University ranking last season. The event also saw a late surge from Denny McCarthy, who won his first PGA Tour title in nine years.