Justin Rose notches first wire-to-wire Torrey Pines win in 71 years with apology to Tiger Woods

Justin Rose made history by becoming the first wire-to-wire champion at Torrey Pines in 71 years, beginning with a six-shot advantage and maintaining that lead throughout Sunday as he wrapped up the Farmers Insurance Open with a two-under 70.

 

After opening with a score of 62 on the North course, Rose excelled on the South course, known for hosting two US Opens. He set a new 72-hole tournament record at 23-under 265, surpassing Tiger Woods’ 1999 record by one stroke, and also bettered George Burns’ 1987 score of 266. “Sorry, T-dub, if you’re watching,” Rose remarked.

 

He faced minimal challenges, focusing instead on smaller objectives, such as extending his lead each day and being aware of the tournament record. He achieved both. Tommy Bolt is the only other player to lead from start to finish at Torrey Pines without ties.

 

Prior to the final round, the 45-year-old Rose emphasized that he wouldn’t become complacent, a sentiment reflected in his front nine score of 33, which included a remarkable 35-foot birdie putt on the par-five ninth, making the back nine feel like a leisurely stroll along the Pacific coast.

 

Ultimately, the competition turned into a fight for second place, which ended in a tie. Kim Si Woo (69), Ryo Hisatsune (69), and Pierceson Coody (66) shared the runner-up position, each taking home a consolation prize of $726,400 (£531,000). For Coody, this finish likely secures him spots in two $20 million signature events at the end of the West Coast Swing.

 

Brooks Koepka returned to the PGA Tour for this event after leaving LIV Golf, finishing tied for 56th. He received warm cheers on the ninth green after sinking a birdie putt for a score of 70, with about 300 fans welcoming him back with chants of “Welcome back, Brooks.” He is now on his way to Phoenix for one of the most boisterous events in golf. “I love the chaos,” he stated.

 

With this victory, Rose, who previously won at Torrey Pines in 2019, has now claimed 13 titles on the PGA Tour and climbed to No. 3 in the world rankings, marking his highest position in nearly seven years. Despite his impressive achievements—including a US Open win, an Olympic gold medal, and seven Ryder Cup appearances—he remains committed to working hard to remain among the top players. “I still believe there’s good stuff in front of me,” he said.