American Billy Horschel spoiled the hopes of home fans with a Rory McIlroy-inspired party after defeating the four-time major champion on the second play-off hole at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.
The 37-year-old Floridian, who nearly missed his third shot in regulation play, finished with a birdie-birdie to end the climb with South African Thriston Lawrence and McIlroy at 20 before the trio returned to the 18th tee. game play.
Lawrence blinked first after a wayward tee-shot and found a fairway bunker and water for the first putt as McIlroy and Horschel calmly rolled in birdies to force the second extra hole.
Both found the green in two before McIlroy missed his eagle attempt, before Horschel drilled a stunning eagle putt to win the event for the second time in four years.
The 2021 champion has been the picture of consistency on the famous Surrey course, playing four rounds in the 60s, including a career-leading seven birdies in Saturday’s third round.
After being awarded the much-anticipated award, Horschel said: “My heart was pounding on the last couple of shots, and the last holes, especially in the play-offs, but it’s always nice to be in those situations. That’s what I’ve worked hard for, and that’s where I’ve always wanted to be, in situations like this, against the best players in the world and hopefully I can come out on top on the day. Luckily I was able to outmaneuver Rory and Thriston and manage to win. “
Horschel, who wears a West Ham logo on his golf bag, added: “I’m grateful to the fans and all the support I get wherever I play in the UK, whether it’s The Open or this tournament. It’s always one of my special weeks of the year. I enjoy coming here. I feel free. I know I’m not from the UK or England, but I feel at home when I come here.”
For McIlroy, this latest loss comes on the heels of a year-long absence, notably at the US Open, and last week’s Irish Open, where he had just one shot to play.
“The game is testing me more than it has done in the past”
Despite the heartbreak, the Irishman is still determined to find the best. “Two weeks in a row, I played well. Not good enough. Look, golf and I play well,” said the 35-year-old player.
“These things happen. It’s just that the game is testing me more than ever but that’s okay. All I can do is keep trying to play the golf I’ve been playing and eventually it will win.”
He added: “The good thing is that there is next year and the year after that and the year after that and the year after that.” Hopefully other years will be a little more productive or a little better. I’ve definitely had years where I’ve felt worse. If you put yourself in so much competition, you are bound to be disappointed. Unfortunately, I’m getting used to hearing what it’s like when you do, but I hope the situation will change.”
English pair Matthew Baldwin and Aaron Rai finished tied for third at 17 behind third-round leader Matteo Manassero, who continued his DP World Tour comeback with an impressive week at Wentworth.
To see all BMW PGA Championship scores, click here.
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