Matthieu Pavon etched his name in the annals of golf history as the inaugural Frenchman to secure a PGA Tour victory in its modern era, triumphing at the Farmers Insurance Open in San Diego.
Pavon delivered a stellar three under par 69, edging out Nicolai Hojgaard of Denmark by a single stroke, thanks to a clutch eight-foot birdie putt on the final hole that clinched his victory.
This win marks a historic milestone, positioning Pavon as the first French golfer to claim a PGA Tour event title since the Second World War, with the modern era of the Tour commencing in 1968.
In a moment of jubilation, Pavon celebrated with raised arms and a joyful shout, embracing his caddie as the winning putt found its mark, against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean at dusk. This crucial birdie on the back nine was his saving grace, steering him clear of a potential playoff.
Stephan Jaeger, who had led the tournament after the second and third rounds, finished two strokes behind Pavon, sharing third place with Nate Lashley and Jake Knapp.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Pavon expressed his disbelief, "It's unbelievable. It feels as though there's another round tomorrow, given it's only Saturday!" He cherished the opportunity provided by the PGA Tour to compete in America against top-tier players, a lifelong dream for him. Pavon saw his participation as a no-lose situation, where failure would simply mean returning to Europe to try again, fostering a pressure-free mindset focused on savouring each moment and doing his best.
Pavon ascended to the lead on the 12th hole and expanded his margin to two strokes before a missed three-foot putt for bogey on the 17th hole reduced his lead to a narrow one stroke.
Facing a challenging situation on the 18th hole, Pavon's initial drive found a sand trap, leaving a difficult position for his second shot. Despite the adverse conditions, including thick rough due to recent heavy rains, he managed a remarkable third shot that landed him within eight feet of the hole.
At 31 years old and hailing from Toulouse, Pavon was competing in only his 11th PGA Tour event. His resume includes one European Tour victory, underscoring this PGA Tour win as a significant milestone in his career.
