Sept 23 V7N - Billy Horschel claimed victory at the BMW PGA Championship after a thrilling three-man playoff against Rory McIlroy and Thriston Lawrence at Wentworth, securing a winner's cheque of $1.53 million. All three golfers finished tied at 20-under overall, leading to the first playoff in the tournament's 11-year history.

Lawrence, five shots off the lead entering the final round, played impressively but bogeyed the 18th after hitting the water, leaving McIlroy and Horschel to battle for the title. McIlroy, seeking his second win at the event after a 2014 triumph, birdied the 18th, but it was Horschel who sealed the victory with a stunning eagle putt. The win made Horschel the first American to win the BMW PGA Championship twice, having previously lifted the trophy in 2021.

Reflecting on the win, Horschel expressed mixed emotions, praising McIlroy as a close friend and incredible talent. He acknowledged the luck involved but emphasized his determination to grind out the win, particularly on a day when he wasn’t at his best.

McIlroy and Lawrence both had standout moments, with McIlroy sinking a remarkable 46-foot eagle putt on the 17th to tie the lead and Lawrence recording seven birdies in the final round. McIlroy, however, narrowly missed out on his second title in as many weeks after also finishing second at the Irish Open. Despite the close calls, McIlroy remained optimistic about his game, focusing on his swing improvements and looking ahead to future tournaments.

For Horschel, the victory was a testament to resilience and precision under pressure, while McIlroy continued to showcase his ability to consistently contend for titles.

END/WSP/RH/