Nick Dunlap Makes History as First Amateur Winner on PGA Tour in 33 Years

A Rising Star Shines Bright in the Coachella Valley

In a breathtaking display of skill and unwavering determination, 20-year-old Nick Dunlap rewrote the history books of golf by becoming the first amateur to triumph on the PGA Tour in 33 years at The American Express in La Quinta, California. The University of Alabama sophomore’s remarkable victory sent shockwaves through the golf world, leaving fans and experts alike in awe of his prodigious talent and unflappable demeanor.

A Thrilling Final Round of Ups and Downs

Dunlap, fresh off his triumph as the reigning U.S. Amateur champion, entered the final round with a seemingly comfortable three-shot lead. However, the pressure of the moment began to weigh heavily on his shoulders. A double-bogey on the seventh hole allowed Sam Burns to draw level, igniting a thrilling duel for the championship.

Dunlap responded with the resilience of a seasoned veteran, draining a birdie on the 10th hole to regain the lead. Burns, however, refused to concede, keeping the pressure on with a barrage of birdies. As the tension mounted on the Stadium Course at PGA West, Dunlap and Burns found themselves tied with just two holes remaining.

A Dramatic Finish and a Historic Victory

The 17th hole proved to be a pivotal moment in the championship. Burns, attempting to seize the lead, hit the water and suffered a double-bogey. Dunlap, despite hitting his tee shot into the rough and his second shot possibly hitting a spectator, managed to recover and sink a 6-foot par putt on the final hole to seal the victory.

Dunlap’s Triumph: A Celebration of Achievement

Dunlap’s victory was met with an outpouring of joy and celebration from his family, friends, and college coach, Jay Seawell, who had all made the journey to witness this historic moment. The emotions were palpable as Dunlap’s parents and girlfriend embraced him on the green, while Seawell beamed with pride at his pupil’s remarkable achievement.

Breaking Records and Setting Milestones

Dunlap’s triumph was not merely a personal milestone; it also marked several significant achievements. He became the first amateur to win on the PGA Tour since Phil Mickelson’s victory at the Tucson Open in 1991. Dunlap is also the seventh amateur winner since 1945 and the third since 1957.

In addition to these accolades, Dunlap’s 29-under 259 total score shattered the tournament scoring record as a 72-hole event. He also became the youngest winner in the event’s history and the youngest amateur to win on the tour since 1910.

The Road Ahead: Professional or Collegiate?

Dunlap’s victory at The American Express presents him with a pivotal decision regarding his future. As the U.S. Amateur champion, he has the opportunity to compete in the Masters, U.S. Open, and British Open. If he decides to turn professional, he would be eligible for the Masters and U.S. Open, along with the remaining seven $20 million signature events on the tour.

Dunlap and his family have yet to make a decision about his next move, but his meteoric rise in the golf world has undoubtedly opened up a world of possibilities. Whether he chooses to continue his amateur status or embark on a professional career, one thing is certain: Nick Dunlap has made an indelible mark on the sport of golf, and his name will forever be etched in the history books.

A Fitting Conclusion to a Memorable Week in the Coachella Valley

Dunlap’s victory at The American Express was a culmination of a remarkable week in the Coachella Valley. He had started the tournament with a sizzling 12-under 60 in the third round, surging into a three-shot lead. Despite losing that lead on the front nine on Sunday, Dunlap displayed the resilience and composure of a seasoned veteran, ultimately securing the victory with a par on the 18th hole.

Dunlap’s Triumph: A Testament to Talent and Determination

Dunlap’s triumph is a testament to his immense talent, unwavering determination, and ability to perform under immense pressure. The golf world eagerly awaits his next move, whether he chooses to continue his amateur status or embark on a professional career. One thing is certain: Nick Dunlap has made an indelible mark on the sport of golf, and his name will forever be etched in the history books.