PGA winner shoots even par after nearly coughing up a six-shot lead.
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By Adam Schupak Golfweek.com
Jacob Bridgeman finally can check the box in his journal next to winning in his list of goals. The 26-year-old former Clemson star shot a final-round 1-over 72 at Riviera Country Club on Sunday for a breakthrough victory at the Genesis Invitational in Pacific Palisades, California.
“This is way, way better than I’ve ever dreamt it,” he said. “I always thought I would do it, kind of expected to do it but until it happens I didn’t think it was real. I’m really proud.”
It also was tougher than he imagined as his lead evaporated on the back nine.
“I thought it was going to be a lot easier than that,” Bridgeman said. “It was honestly easy until I got to about 16 and then it got really hard. Yeah, I can’t believe it. I made it about as hard as I could have made it I think at the end, making it one shot and having to make a three-footer, yeah, this is incredible.”
Bridgeman was one of the most decorated golf careers in Clemson history. After being a three-time Class AAA state champion in South Carolina, he tied for the school record with five tournament victories, his last coming at the 2022 ACC Championship. He was named that season’s ACC Golfer of the Year, one year after being selected ACC Student-Athlete of the Year for men’s golf. Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!
He earned Korn Ferry Tour status for 2023 by virtue of finishing second in PGA Tour U, and made it to the big leagues a year later. He kept his card as a rookie, finishing No. 113 in the FedEx Cup Fall standings, but experienced some growing pains.
When as a rookie he missed three cuts in a row in the summer, he admitted his confidence took a hit. “I told a couple people I felt like I’ve been kicked in the face,” he said.
His then-girlfriend, now-wife – they tied the knot on Dec. 19 – reminded him, “work is meant to be balanced with rest.” That helped him find a better head space.
Bridgeman is blessed with raw talent and athletic ability – world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler said he’d include him on his basketball – but he realized he’d never own his swing until he learned to understand its inner workings better. Instructor Scott Hamiton first watched Bridgeman play nine holes at the 2022 RSM Classic, which he played on a sponsor’s exemption.
