Steve Stricker made history on the PGA Tour Champions circuit by becoming the first player ever to win three consecutive tournaments, achieving the feat at the 2024 Sanford International. This remarkable accomplishment adds to his previous three-peat at the John Deere Classic from 2009 to 2011, solidifying his unique place in the history books of the PGA Tour. The final round of the Sanford International saw Stricker starting three shots behind the leader, Michael Wright, at Minnehaha Country Club in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
As the final round unfolded, Stricker managed to take a two-shot lead heading into the closing hole, only to bogey and allow Richard Green to birdie, forcing a playoff between the two. The playoff went down to the wire, with Stricker’s approach shot hitting the flagstick on the fourth extra hole, leading to an incredible victory. His rounds of 67-68-67 throughout the week showcased his consistency and skill on the course, earning him his fourth win at the Sanford International and his 18th victory on the Champions Tour. With 12 wins on the PGA Tour, Stricker’s legacy as a dominant force in professional golf is further solidified.
Despite Stricker’s historic performance, veteran players like Bernhard Langer made their presence felt with strong showings during the tournament. Langer, who shot a final-round 67, finished just shy of the lead at 7 under, marking his second consecutive runner-up finish after a recent playoff loss. Alongside Green, Langer shared second place at the event, highlighting the competitive nature of the Champions Tour. Ernie Els, the leader in the Charles Schwab Cup points standings, also tied for third place at 7 under, showcasing the depth of talent on the tour.
Additionally, emerging talent like Michael Wright made an impact at the Sanford International, finishing tied for fifth at 6 under. Wright, a 50-year-old PGA Tour Champions rookie, earned his spot on tour through Q School last November and showed his potential with strong performances throughout the tournament. His consistent play, including rounds of 67 and 65, demonstrated the competitive nature of the tour and the opportunities available for players looking to make their mark on the professional golf scene.
Overall, the 2024 Sanford International provided a platform for both seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talent to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level of professional golf. Steve Stricker’s historic three-peat on the Champions Tour solidified his status as a legendary figure in the sport, while players like Bernhard Langer and Ernie Els continued to display their competitive drive and skill on the course. With a mix of experience and emerging talent, the tournament highlighted the depth of talent on the Champions Tour and the excitement of watching some of the game’s greatest players compete at the highest level.
