Joe Highsmith faced mounting pressure at the Cognizant Classic last Friday as he aimed to simply make the cut. His pivotal moment arose with a challenging 5-foot par putt, a shot he termed “the worst putt you’d ever want.” Despite the nerve-wracking challenge—especially daunting for a left-handed player—Highsmith succeeded, securing his place for the rest of the tournament.
Fast forward two days, and Highsmith emerged as a victor, claiming his first PGA Tour win in dramatic fashion, earning entry to the prestigious Masters. His incredible performance included a record-setting weekend at PGA National, with two consecutive scores of 6-under 64. This remarkable turnaround made him the first player in nearly a decade to go from barely making the cut to lifting the championship trophy.
Reflecting on his victory, Highsmith stated, “Winning was the last thing on my mind. It’s extraordinary to finish on top. I played my best game ever.” On the final day, he overcame a four-shot deficit by executing three consecutive birdies and a decisive 20-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole, which all but sealed his triumph.
While Highsmith shone, Jake Knapp faltered after initially leading with an impressive 59. Knapp’s tournament took a turn for the worse on the 11th hole, where his wedge shot found water. Despite efforts to recover, the mishap led to a triple bogey, and Knapp couldn’t close the gap, finishing with a 72.
Jacob Bridgeman and J.J. Spaun each delivered strong finishes, closing with scores of 64 and 66 respectively to tie for second place. Bridgeman, hopeful of catching the leaders, expressed his focus on making as many birdies as possible. His outstanding performance secured him a spot in the upcoming Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Highsmith’s achievement is notable as he became the first player since Brandt Snedeker in 2016 to win after narrowly making the cut. Remembering his Friday putt that secured his weekend play, Highsmith mused, “I thought, ‘Am I really going to miss the cut?’” Yet he capitalized on the opportunity, displaying resilience and determination.
During a thrilling final round filled with potential leaders, Highsmith distinguished himself with a precise game. His exceptional wedge play and birdie putts on crucial holes, including a confident 15-foot birdie on the 13th, solidified his lead. Assisted by caddie Joe LaCava IV, Highsmith ended the tournament victorious, etching his name alongside notable champions.
Highsmith celebrated as the second first-time winner in two weeks, following Brian Campbell’s triumph at the Mexico Open. Finishing at 19-under 265, he secured invitations to key events, including the Masters and PGA Championship, and his first perched spot for upcoming signature tournaments.
Upon realizing his Masters entry, Highsmith, who attended as a spectator last year, remarked on the significance of his achievement: “To play in that tournament is special. It’s a dream you work towards your entire life but can’t predict when it’ll come true.”
Other noteworthy performances included Jordan Spieth, who carded a 68 to tie for ninth, marking his second top 10 since recuperating from wrist surgery, and Florida State junior Luke Clanton, who tied for 18th and earned a PGA Tour card through his efforts.
In sum, Highsmith’s victory at PGA National, a renowned venue for major golfing events, underscored his growth and adaptability as he claimed glory amid an oversaturated course, marking a new chapter in his promising career.
