Blades Brown Wins in Mexico, Becomes Youngest PGA Tour Champion Since 1931
The 19-year-old erased a seven-shot deficit at the World Wide Technology Championship to claim his first PGA Tour title.
By Paula Delgado ·
Nineteen years old. That is the age of Blades Brown, who on Sunday became the youngest winner on the PGA Tour in 95 years. Brown captured the World Wide Technology Championship in Los Cabos, Mexico, after a dramatic final round that culminated in a playoff against Ben James. The victory at the El Cardonal at Diamante course ended a 95-year wait for a player under 20 to win a major professional event.
The previous record holder was Charles Kocsis, who won the Michigan Open in 1931 at age 18. That event was considered a regional competition during the early days of professional golf. Brown’s win marks a distinct milestone for the next generation of players entering the tour.
The final round featured intense competition between Brown and James. James entered the final day with a four-shot lead. On the par-5 18th hole, James hit a 285-yard shot that landed within 20 feet of the pin. He made eagle on that hole, salvaging a score of 70 to force a playoff. However, momentum shifted during the extra holes.
On the first playoff hole, both players had approach shots land side by side, separated by about three feet. Neither player converted the eagle opportunity. They moved to the second extra hole, where their drives also landed next to each other, both falling just short of the green. The outcome was decided by putts. James missed an 8-foot birdie attempt, while Brown sank a 3-footer to secure the win.
"I'm so obsessed with this game. It tests you in so many ways," Brown said following his victory. He noted his love for the game and its components. Brown graduated from high school in January, transitioning from junior days to professional competition.
The tournament, a FedEx Cup Fall event, showcased two young rivals. James ranked No. 1 in the PGA Tour University rankings last season, while Brown turned professional two years ago while still a high school junior. The two have known each other since their junior careers. "I got him this time, but I'm sure we'll be battling it out for years to come," Brown remarked.
In the final stretch of the regulation round, Brown shared the lead after three consecutive birdies on the back nine. He finished with a pitch for birdie on the final hole, posting a total score of 23-under 265. This placed him one shot ahead of Michael Kim, who also played a strong final round. The victory grants Brown a PGA Tour card for 2027, as he finished in the top 20 on the Korn Ferry Tour points list. This achievement provides him with a two-year exemption for the PGA Tour's new model launching in 2028. The win also guarantees him a spot in his first major championship, the PGA Championship, next year.
