Ludvig Åberg showcased his exceptional skills by winning the Genesis Invitational, firmly establishing himself as a top-tier player in professional golf.
LA JOLLA, Calif. — The location where Ludvig Åberg made his decisive birdie putt is one that resonates deeply with golf enthusiasts, reminiscent of the 2008 U.S. Open.
Although Åberg was just eight years old during that iconic event, he has absorbed its significance through countless videos and discussions.
That memorable moment in Tiger Woods’ illustrious career unfolded there, where Woods made a pivotal 12-foot birdie putt on the 18th green, forcing a playoff that led to his 14th major title.
Now, Åberg faced a similar pressure, needing to convert a seven-foot putt to secure the most significant victory of his career on that fateful Sunday. He delivered, finishing the round with an impressive 6-under 66, edging out Maverick McNealy by a single shot.
This victory not only marks Åberg’s triumph at the Genesis Invitational but also solidifies his status as a PGA Tour superstar. He is no longer just a rising star; he has truly arrived, demonstrating that he can contend against any player on any course.
Åberg’s stellar performance included a 4-under 32 on the back nine, the best score recorded by any player that day. His crucial par save on the 12th hole, a six-footer, was a turning point; he believed that missing it could have cost him the tournament.
Following that critical save, Åberg went on to make three consecutive birdies on holes 13, 14, and 15, pushing him to 11-under for the championship and tying him with McNealy at the top of the leaderboard.
“I definitely saw what [McNealy] was doing; I looked at all the leaderboards that I could. He reached 12 [under] early, while I was still at seven- or eight-under,” Åberg reflected on his mindset during the back nine.
“Once I noticed that he had posted 11 [under], I aimed to get to 12,” he added, which he accomplished with his final putt, clinching the trophy by showcasing the composure expected from elite players.
