Joe Highsmith secured his first PGA Tour victory with an impressive turnaround in the final two rounds of the Cognizant Classic at PGA National in Florida.
After barely making the halfway cut on Friday, Highsmith found himself eight strokes behind. However, he made a remarkable charge over the weekend with consecutive seven-under par 64s, setting a new tournament record with a total of 19 under and winning by two shots.
Highsmith joins a select group of players who have won after barely making the cut, with his bogey-free final round described as the best of his career.
Despite a strong start, overnight leader Jake Knapp’s fortunes changed dramatically, leading to missed opportunities and a share of sixth place.
Highsmith’s win not only earns him a spot in upcoming PGA Tour events but also secures him an invite to The Masters and the PGA Championship.
What’s next?
The PGA Tour continues in Florida with the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy will be among the players to watch.
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