Blades Brown makes history in Los Cabos following an epic playoff at the World Wide Technology Championship
In a dramatic finish that went to sudden death, young American golfer Blades Brown was crowned champion of the historic 20th edition of the World Wide Technology Championship, defeating fellow American Ben James after two thrilling playoff holes at El Cardonal at Diamante.
At just 19 years old, the Nashville native carded a spectacular final-round 63 (-9) to climb eight spots up the leaderboard and force a playoff. With this feat, Brown not only became the youngest winner in the tournament’s history, but he also extended a curious trend in Los Cabos: it marked the fourth consecutive year that the champion has closed the event with a final round of 63.
Sunday’s action on the course designed by Tiger Woods was packed with drama. Ben James, 23, began the day as the outright leader with what appeared to be a comfortable cushion; however, a final round of 70 opened the door for Brown’s fierce charge. Both competitors finished the regulation 72 holes tied at 265 (-23).
In the playoff, Brown’s steady putting tipped the scales in his favor after James missed his shot. This victory earns the teenager his first official PGA Tour win and a coveted exemption on the tour through 2028. Rounding out the top three was fellow American Michael Kim, who finished alone in third place at -22 following an impressive round of 64.
Álvaro Ortiz shines for Mexico and secures a spot in Austin
The local contingent left a strong impression, thanks to the brilliant performance of Álvaro Ortiz. The golfer from Guadalajara, making his debut at this venue, finished in a tie for sixth place with a total score of 19-under-par, carding rounds of 69, 66, 66, and 68.
Although he remained in contention for the lead throughout the weekend, Ortiz lacked luck with his putter during the final holes on Sunday. Nevertheless, this top-10 finish secured his automatic entry to compete in next week’s Austin Championship.
The anniversary edition of the PGA Tour’s pioneering tournament in Mexico lived up to high expectations, cementing Los Cabos as a must-visit destination in the world of golf and an ideal platform for the emergence of the sport’s future superstars.
Final Leaderboard
|
Posición |
Jugador |
Score Total |
Ronda Final |
|
1 |
🇺🇸 Blades Brown * (Ganador en Playoff) |
-23 (265) |
63 |
|
2 |
🇺🇸 Ben James |
-23 (265) |
70 |
|
3 |
🇺🇸 Michael Kim |
-22 |
64 |
|
6 (E) |
🇲🇽 Álvaro Ortiz |
-19 |
68 |
