Davis Riley overcame early struggles to secure his second US PGA Tour title with an even-par 70 at the Charles Schwab Challenge on Sunday. Riley, who began the day with a four-shot lead over world number one Scottie Scheffler, balanced three bogeys with three birdies to finish with a 14-under-par total of 266 at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas. The tournament had an emotional backdrop, with the golfers honoring their late colleague Grayson Murray, who passed away the previous day.
Starting his round with high expectations and a strong lead, Riley faced tough competition from Scheffler, who had been in excellent form, including a recent Masters win. Despite a bogey on the second hole, Riley made a significant 27-foot birdie at the fourth, though he quickly gave it back with a bogey at the fifth. On a day when low scores were rare, a birdie at the ninth helped him maintain a commanding six-shot lead into the back nine. Although he bogeyed the 15th and 17th holes, Riley managed to clinch the title, adding to his previous win at the Zurich Classic last year.
Reflecting on his victory, Riley acknowledged the emotional weight of the day, dedicating his win to Murray and expressing sympathy for his family. "It was a super-sad day in the golf world," Riley said, emphasizing that playing with Murray in mind gave him extra motivation. Despite the challenging conditions and the pressure from Scheffler, Riley was proud of his resilience and performance under pressure.
Scheffler, who had three bogeys and two back-nine birdies, finished with a one-under 71, five strokes behind Riley. Keegan Bradley, who posted a three-under 67 with five birdies, also reflected on Murray's passing, noting the somber mood among the players. Bradley, who finished at 10-under after a bogey on the final hole, praised his own round but remained focused on the loss of his colleague. Murray's parents had requested that players wear ribbon pins in black and red to honor him, a gesture that highlighted the close-knit nature of the golfing community.
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