Koepka successfully defends LIV golf title

Former world number one, Brooks Koepka, defended his title at the LIV Golf Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, finishing the event with 14-under 196. The game went into play-off and it was at the second hole that Koepka emerged winner after defeating Talor Gooch and ending the round at two-under-par 68. 

Despite losing to Koepka, Gooch was crowned the season-long individual title winner, pocketing an impressive £14.8 million. This season’s LIV Golf League will conclude next week in Miami, where the team championship will determine this year’s ultimate victor.

Koepka demonstrated his composure by birdying two of the last three holes and adding another crucial birdie during the second playoff hole. This triumph marked his third victory on the LIV circuit, with a prize of $4 million (£3.3 million) for the tournament win. Interestingly, Koepka was initially unaware that he also secured an additional $4 million for finishing third in the individual standings.

Upon learning of the impressive double win, Koepka humbly stated, “Sweet. It’s a good feeling.”

Sunday’s standout performer, Gooch, delivered a spectacular round of 62. Ultimately, it was Gooch who reigned supreme in the season-long points race, surpassing Cameron Smith of Australia and Bryson DeChambeau to claim the coveted top spot.

Gooch’s remarkable success on the PGA Tour is highlighted by the fact that, despite just one win in 123 starts, he earned more than $9 million. His season featured three tournament victories and an impressive five top-10 finishes, amassing a grand total of over $15 million.

His flawless performance on Sunday included an astonishing eight birdies, with not a single bogey to tarnish his scorecard. Truly impressive. 

Other notable performances on the final day included Harold Varner III, who secured a share of third place with a score of 65. He was joined by Scott Vincent from Zimbabwe and Spain’s Sergio Garcia, who posted scores of 66 and 67, respectively.

The tournament also saw a three-way tie for sixth place, featuring prominent names such as Dustin Johnson, Mito Pereira from Chile, and Charles Howell III.

Leon Osamor