Justin Rose edged out J.J. Spaun to win the FedEx St. Jude Championship in dramatic fashion (Image:Photo by Matthew Maxey/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Justin Rose added another impressive chapter to his already incredible career, beating out J.J. Spaun in three sudden-death playoff holes at TPC Southwind.
Tommy Fleetwood appeared to be in the driver’s seat to register his first PGA Tour victory at Memphis. However, the 34-year-old faltered toward the end of his final round, allowing the 45-year-old Rose and rising Tour star Spaun to overtake Fleetwood for first place.
Rose and Spaun’s first two playoff holes ended with the stars matching each other stroke for stroke. The final sudden-death playoff hole had the groundscrew move where the hole was, which played into Rose’s favor, with the veteran star ending the tournament with a 3-under 67.
Andy Reid confirms crushing season-ending injury after Chiefs’ preseason opener
Browns fans make their minds up on Shedeur Sanders as Giants, Raiders and Steelers sent messages
Meanwhile, Fleetwood once again fell at the precipice of excellence, once again delaying the celebrations for his first PGA Tour win. Still, the star remained gracious in defeat as he spoke to NBC Sports after his collapse in the final round.
“There’s a lot of positives to take, as much as I won’t feel like that right now. I’m just going to look at what I feel like I could have done and how close it was,” Fleetwood said. “All these experiences and these close calls, like I say, there’s no point in allowing them to have a negative effect on what happens next. What would be the point?”
“It was a great week. I did a ton of good stuff, and as disappointed as I am, I have to try to find the strength to make it all a positive experience and hopefully next time go again.”
1
So Close Yet so Far
Fleetwood, at one point, sank three birdies in a four-hole stretch that made it look like he was set for a celebration once it was all said and done, giving him a two-shot lead with three to play
Inauspicious Start
Despite beginning the final round on the outside looking in, Rose made six birdies over his final eight holes played to cement his win as one of the more impressive this year.
That’s Rough, Buddy
Needing to sink a birdie on the 18th hole, Fleetwood instead drove his ball into a bunker, all but ending his chances of winning the FedEx St. Jude Championship.
Fleetwood’s Heartbreak
The 34-year-old couldn’t contain his emotions as he watched his chances of winning his first PGA Tour event collapse after coming close to a win at TPC Southwind.
Gracious in Defeat
Fleetwood (L) took time to congratulate Rose (R), despite the latter taking advantage of the former’s collapse toward the end of his final round at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.
Living on the Edge
During Rose’s playoff duel with Spaun, the veteran found himself on the edge of the water, though he was still able to navigate through the danger for an impressive shot.
Playoff for the Ages
The 45-year-old Rose held off Spaun in impressive fashion as he came from behind to steal a win away from the American star at Memphis, showing his mettle in big moments.
Competition Breeds Friendship
After a tough back-and-forth playoff matchup that could have gone either way, Rose took time to congratulate Spaun on a thrilling contest as the American continues his impressive form.
Fleetwood’s Fans
Golf fans have rallied behind Fleetwood after his disastrous final round, giving the 34-year-old the support he needs as he continues to battle for his first PGA Tour win.
This Rose isn’t Red
After his nerve-wracking win over Spaun, Rose added the FedEx St. Jude Championship to his already illustrious career as he continues to cement his name as one of the game’s greats.