Emotional Malnati Win Proves Non-Signature Events Can Still be Captivating

Peter Malnati was the surprise winner of the Valspar Championship after a tournament that confused bettors and fans alike. The victory marks first since 2015, over 3,000 days ago.

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It looked like Florida was going to be another site of success for Keith Mitchell after he took the 54 hole lead with some stellar play, but Mitchell capitulated on Sunday, going +8 through his first 13 holes and tumbling down the leaderboard. A consolation eagle did little to lift his spirits.

Justin Thomas also imploded at the Valspar, as he lost a total of seven strokes to the field on the greens during a Saturday round of 79.

Xander Schauffele and Cam Young continue to be the ‘nearly men’ in golf, with Young failing to capture a win after being in contention once again. And Xander peering in from the periphery as he so often does once his name is near the lead.

It was a strange tournament for many but Peter Malnati’s words after his victory will be remembered, as he poured his heart out, explaining what it has taken for him to get back in the winner’s circle on Tour.

🥹 An emotional Peter Malnati reacts to winning his first event on Tour since 2015.

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Malnati cited the level of talent on Tour these days and how it is even more difficult to compete than when he last won in 2015.

His caddy Chad Antus left another great story at the Valspar, he’s been caddying for 20 years and never had a win on the PGA Tour, capturing his first last night.

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We’re learning that even in the weeks where Scheffler or Rory doesn’t romp home to victory, there can still be moments of brilliance on the course. Malnati reminds us that despite the billions of dollars in the game now, there are memories that cannot be bought.

Cover Image via X