Alex Noren Wins BMW PGA Championship After Dramatic Playoff
In an exciting day marked by rain, Alex Noren won the BMW PGA Championship, demonstrating his composure and skill on the Wentworth course. The Swedish golfer beat Adrien Saddier of France in a dramatic playoff, securing his second title in this prestigious tournament. The field conditions, softened by the rain, presented challenges to both players on the 18th hole, where the championship was decided. Noren, after a complicated initial shot, executed a masterful chip from a short distance, leaving the ball just three feet from the hole and securing the birdie that gave him the victory.This triumph represents Noren’s second victory in his last three appearances on the European Tour, solidifying his excellent form. Despite not being part of the starting team for the Ryder Cup, Noren is preparing to travel to New York as vice-captain. With this victory, Noren adds his twelfth title on the European Tour and will rise in the world ranking, surpassing several members of the European Ryder Cup team. Rory McIlroy finished with an outstanding round of 65 strokes, placing 20th. Jon Rahm, for his part, achieved a 66 to tie for 13th place.Today was a struggle. I feel like he outplayed me from tee to green, but that’s how it goes.
Alex Noren
The eleven players of the European Team who competed at Wentworth are preparing for two days of practice at Bethpage Black, before the matches from September 26 to 28. Aaron Rai of England and Patrick Reed of the United States shared third place, two strokes behind the leaders, after closing with 66 strokes each. Noren and Saddier, both with rounds of 68 strokes under par, starred in an exciting duel in the rain. Both had birdie opportunities, finishing with a total of 269 strokes, 19 under par. Saddier had a stroke of luck when a shot on the 15th hole hit a spectator’s sweatshirt, allowing him a drop. On the 17th hole, Saddier approached the hole, but Noren responded with a birdie from outside 20 feet. The playoff was played in constant rain. Noren admitted that he thought his initial shot in the playoff would go into the water, but he had a good position that allowed him the winning chip. This triumph marks a notable comeback for the 43-year-old Swedish golfer, who was affected by a hamstring injury last year. Despite his late return, Noren was selected as assistant to captain Luke Donald for the Ryder Cup. Saddier added his sixth top 10 on the European Tour this year, including his victory at the Italian Open.A very good way to end the week, the last competitive round before the Ryder Cup. It’s good to finish on top.
Rory McIlroy
