Fowler, Dufner Both Victorious On Opposite Sides Of The Globe

Jan. 23, 2016 - Source: David Cannon/Getty Images Europe

This past tournament weekend was a very busy one in the golf world.  On American soil, the PGA Tour played host to the CareerBuilder Challenge in La Quinta, California.  The tournament was played on three different courses in the area: La Quinta Country Club, PGA West TPC Stadium Course, and PGA West Course.  The final round was played on the Stadium Course. 
 
After 4 rounds of golf, two players were tied at 25 under par.  Jason Dufner and David Lingmerth played two playoff holes before Dufner saved par on the 18th hole to secure his first tournament victory since 2013.  This was Dufner’s fourth career PGA Tour victory.  Dufner almost lost the tournament on the 17th hole after his approach into the island green missed left. Instead of landing in the water, his ball settled in a rocky area.  Dufner had a clear lie and was able to save par and remain tied with Lingmerth.  Dufner finally returns to prominence on the PGA tour after a few rough years enduring neck surgery and a divorce with his wife. 
 
On the opposite side of the world, The European Tour hosted the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.  Rickie Fowler won his second career Tournament on the European Tour. Fowler finished his Sunday round with a bit of drama.  On the 17th hole, Fowler was leading by one shot and faced a tough up and down for par.  He holed the chip to take a two shot lead going into the last hole and would later win by one stroke.   Despite a Sunday back 9 surge, Rory McIlroy finished in a tie for 3rd.  Fellow American Jordan Spieth finished in a tie for 5th. This victory helps push Fowler into the discussion of creating a “Big 4” of golf's best young players joining Jordan Spieth, Jason Day, and Rory McIlroy.
 
Next up, the PGA Tour continues its west coast swing from Torrey Pines in sunny San Diego.  Phil Mickelson is expected to compete in his hometown along with Dustin Johnson and Jason Day.

Matt Nadworny
​@MattN_BBS