David Puig ended Spain’s long wait at the Australian PGA Championship by becoming the first Spaniard since Seve Ballesteros in 1981 to lift the trophy. The 23-year-old sealed a two-shot victory in Brisbane with a flawless final round, securing his first DP World Tour title.
Composed Finish Seals Breakthrough
Puig delivered a bogey-free five-under 66 on Sunday to finish 18 under, capping off a week where he looked increasingly assured. The win marks his third professional title, following two Asian Tour triumphs in 2023 and 2024. His previous best on the DP World Tour was a third-place finish at the Ras Al Khaimah Championship earlier this year.
“It feels amazing,” Puig said after the win. He admitted nerves crept in late, especially when recalling past near misses, but added that staying composed helped him close out the tournament.
Span’s First Winner Since Ballesteros
Puig’s triumph not only mirrors Ballesteros’ 1981 success but also makes him the first European champion since England’s David Howell in 1998. The milestone adds weight to a season where Puig also finished 10th in the 2025 LIV Golf standings, further establishing his rise in elite golf.
China’s Ding Wenyi matched Puig’s 66 in the final round to finish second on 16 under. Australian Marc Leishman and New Zealand’s Nick Voke shared third place on 15 under.
Leaders Falter as Puig Pulls Clear
Portugal’s Ricardo Gouveia, who started the day tied for the lead, faltered with a one-over 72 to slip down the leaderboard and finish eighth alongside Australia’s Daniel Gale. With challengers fading, Puig held control throughout the back nine, ensuring there was no late twist in Brisbane.
Discussion about this post