Jon Rahm has taking to social media to sing the praises of 20-year-old star Nick Dunlap, after he became the first amateur in 33 years to win a PGA Tour event at the American Express.
After defeating competitors like Justin Thomas and Xander Schauffele to win the tournament in California on Sunday, Dunlap cemented his place in golf history. By doing this, he made history by being the first player to win a Tour event as an amateur since legendary LIV Golfer Phil Mickelson, who claimed his first victory in 1991.
Several of the biggest names in golf, including Mickelson’s fellow LIV player Rahm, who has predicted the youngster to become a future star, naturally praised Dunlap after his victory.
“What an incredible feat by @NickDunlap62, fantastic play and way to persevere under pressure to join a very select group of players to win PGA tour events as an amateur!” he wrote on X. This incredible talent has a bright future ahead! Many congratulations.”
Rahm, who had won the American Express title the year before Dunlap’s historic victory, was barred by the PGA Tour from competing this year because of his ties to LIV Golf and was therefore unable to defend his title. Naturally, in Rahm’s absence, Dunlap took center stage and showed bravery in the final round.
Dunlap was two shots behind the lead with five holes remaining in the final round, despite having a three-shot lead going into it. He then tied the lead after making birdies at the 14th and 16th holes, but close competitor Sam Burns bogeyed the 17th.
Dunlap knew he needed a par on the 72nd hole to win, and he made the final green with a six-foot putt. The 20-year-old had remained calm and collected the entire week, but he opened up a little bit after the PGA Tour title was officially announced.
Speaking about the post-round experience specifically, he stated: “[It was] nothing like I had ever felt.” It’s really awesome. I told Sam [Burns] several times that I thought it was awesome to be an amateur out here experiencing this. I wouldn’t have believed you if you had told me that, on Wednesday night, I would have a putt to win this golf tournament, regardless of whether I had made that or missed it.”
“As a kid, you kind of whack it around all over the putting green and every putt’s for a chance to win, whether that’s a PGA Tour event, the Masters, or the U.S. Open,” he continued, reflecting on the crucial putt at the age of 18. I also took a little longer than usual to make that putt because I wanted to enjoy the moment and not take anything for granted. I just want to seize the opportunity since I might not get it again. As I mentioned earlier, you never know when it might occur again.”
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