Canada's Nick Taylor secured his fourth PGA Tour title in a gripping playoff against American Charley Hoffman at the Phoenix Open. Taylor birdied three consecutive holes at the 18th, showcasing his nerve under pressure.
Battling through 30 regulation holes due to weather delays, Taylor finished the marathon day with a bogey-free six-under par 65, matching Hoffman on 21-under 263. The victory marks Taylor's fourth career PGA Tour title, with his previous wins including the 2014 Sanderson Farms Championship, the 2020 Pebble Beach Pro-Am, and the 2021 PGA Canadian Open.
Reflecting on his performance, Taylor drew on his experience from the previous year and highlighted the challenges posed by the 18th tee, expressing satisfaction with his birdie successes. Hoffman, vying for his first PGA victory since 2016, settled for a top-10 finish after a closing 64.
The playoff unfolded with intense birdie exchanges, but Taylor sealed the win with a birdie putt from just inside 12 feet at the 18th. Despite the long and challenging day, Taylor found his swing in the final holes, making crucial birdies to secure the victory.
Defending champion Scottie Scheffler's bid for a third consecutive Phoenix Open title fell short, with the top-ranked golfer settling for a share of third place. Unruly fan behavior at the event, known for its vibrant atmosphere and large crowds, marred the competition. The Phoenix Open marked a memorable and tension-packed contest, with Taylor's playoff heroics adding another chapter to his PGA Tour success story.
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