PHOENIX — Bernhard Langer achieved a remarkable milestone on the PGA Tour Champions by securing his 18th consecutive year of victories, clinching a thrilling win at the Charles Schwab Cup Championship on Sunday held at Phoenix Country Club. Langer made a crucial 30-foot birdie putt on the final hole, which proved pivotal in edging out Steven Alker for the title.
At 67 years old, Langer completed the round with a solid 5-under 66, marking the third consecutive day he successfully shot his age or better, a feat he has accomplished 23 times throughout his time on the tour. This victory added to his remarkable success, bringing his total to 47 tour wins, a record in itself. Langer’s triumph comes just over eight months after he sustained a torn left Achilles tendon while playing pickleball. Not only did he win the season finale, but he also made history as the oldest champion on the tour.
Entering the final stretch of the match with a five-stroke lead over Alker, Langer faced a tense moment as the competition tightened. After a challenging 17th hole, where Alker made a close birdie while Langer managed to scramble for a bogey, the two players along with Richard Green found themselves in a tie heading into the final hole.
As the final par-5 18th hole unfolded, Langer found himself in the trees after his drive but managed to reach the green in three strokes and sank a lengthy birdie putt. Alker faced difficulties as he hit his second shot over the green, and after his chip fell short, he was unable to convert a crucial 12-footer that would have forced a playoff. Alker finished with a round of 66. As the 2022 season champion, he had entered the week trailing behind Ernie Els in the points standings. Els, on the other hand, tied for 13th place after posting a score of 67, solidifying his position in the standings but ultimately finishing second.
Green wrapped up his day in style by birdieing the last two holes for an impressive round of 65. The tournament featured the top 36 players from the points list, with only Steve Stricker failing to participate despite qualifying.