Xander Schauffele returned to winning ways after 14 months, capturing the Baycurrent Classic in Japan with a superb final-round performance. The American shot an eight-under 64 to finish at 19-under overall, one shot clear of compatriot Max Greyserman at the Yokohama Country Club on Sunday.
A Return to Form
The victory marked Schauffele’s first title since his 2024 Open Championship win at Royal Troon. It was also his 10th PGA Tour triumph and came after a challenging period in which the 31-year-old battled a rib injury that disrupted the rhythm he built following his major breakthrough at the PGA Championship last year.
“I definitely had doubts about winning again,” Schauffele admitted after his win. “Every athlete goes through moments of uncertainty. It was a rough year, but my team kept me going and helped me rediscover my confidence.”
Special Win in Japan
The victory held extra significance for Schauffele, whose mother grew up in Japan and whose grandparents still live there. “Winning here feels special,” he said. “Japan means a lot to me and my family, and it’s a place that always feels like home.”
Schauffele’s final round featured eight birdies, showcasing the precision and control that have defined his career. The win also came in his first tournament appearance since the United States’ Ryder Cup defeat to Europe at Bethpage Black in New York.
Strong Performances and Near Misses
Max Greyserman finished runner-up on 18-under, while Michael Thorbjornsen, who briefly tied for the lead with an eagle at the fourth hole, secured third at 16-under. Matt McCarty delivered the round of the day with a sensational 11-under 60, which included eight consecutive birdies on the back nine. A bogey at the 18th, however, denied him a historic sub-60 finish.
England’s Matt Wallace ended at 11-under, while Schauffele’s Ryder Cup teammate Collin Morikawa closed tied for 14th at 10-under.
With this win, Schauffele appears to have rediscovered his best form—just in time to reignite his pursuit of more PGA Tour titles in 2025.
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