In a thrilling conclusion to the BMW PGA Championship, Billy Horschel clinched the title with a spectacular 35-foot eagle putt during a playoff, marking his second victory at the DP World Tour’s flagship event. This win came at the expense of Rory McIlroy, who endured his fourth runner-up finish this year.
“I’m thrilled, excited for the way I played,” Horschel expressed post-victory. “I battled out there today. But at the same time, I’m a little disappointed. Rory is a really good friend of mine, and I think the world of him. I think he’s a generational talent, and I know how close he’s been this year, so I can feel for him.”
McIlroy, who has two wins this year—the Hero Dubai Desert Classic in January and the Wells Fargo Championship in May—faced another near miss. His year has been marked by several close calls, including the U.S. Open and last week’s Irish Open, and now at Wentworth. McIlroy’s highlight came when he sank an impressive eagle on the 17th at Wentworth, tying Thriston Lawrence for the lead.
The final round saw Horschel making strategic plays, including a decision to lay up on the 18th at his caddie’s behest, which paid off as he finished with a birdie, forcing the playoff alongside Lawrence and McIlroy after shooting a closing 67.
“My heart was pounding on the last couple of shots, the last couple of holes, and especially in the playoff,” Horschel recounted. “But it’s always fun being in those situations.”
In the playoff, Horschel and McIlroy moved to a second hole after Lawrence dropped out with a bogey. Both golfers reached the green in two, but it was Horschel who capitalized on his eagle opportunity, securing the win amidst mixed reactions from the crowd, many of whom were rooting for McIlroy.
Reflecting on his affinity for the tournament, Horschel said, “It’s always one of my most special weeks of the year. I enjoy coming here. I feel a sense of ease. I feel a sense of calm… I feel almost at home when I come here.”
Despite the disappointment, McIlroy remained optimistic about his performance and future, planning a short break before his next tournament. “Two weeks in a row, I’ve played well. Just not quite well enough. But you know, happy with where my game is and happy where it’s trending,” he concluded.
The event also saw Matteo Manassero, the 54-hole leader, conclude in a tie for fourth, highlighting the fierce competition and the fine margins that define the sport.