In a stunning finish to the FedEx St Jude Championship, Justin Rose showcased his veteran grit by capturing his 12th PGA Tour title in a thrilling playoff against US Open champion JJ Spaun. The 45-year-old Englishman’s late surge, featuring six birdies in the final eight holes, earned him a spot in sudden death where he ultimately prevailed.
Rose, who now holds the distinction of being the oldest European to win a PGA Tour event in the modern era, appeared out of contention after a costly bogey at the 12th hole. That setback left him two shots behind the leaders—Tommy Fleetwood, world number one Scottie Scheffler, and Spaun himself.
However, Rose’s remarkable resilience saw him storm back with four consecutive birdies beginning at the 14th hole, catapulting him to a tie for the lead at 16-under par. Spaun matched Rose’s charge, closing with birdies on the final two holes to force the playoff.
Fleetwood, who had been well-positioned to claim his elusive first PGA Tour victory, faltered with a par-bogey-par finish on the last three holes, ultimately finishing just outside the playoff spots.
In the sudden death, Rose held his nerve, sinking a crucial 14-foot birdie putt to seal the win after Spaun missed his chance to extend the contest.
Reflecting on his win, Rose said, “I never stopped believing during those final holes. I played some of my best golf when it mattered most, and it felt great to come through.”
The victory is particularly significant for Rose, who noted, “At 45, I feel fitter and more prepared than ever. Age is just a number—I’m excited about what’s still ahead in my career.”
Meanwhile, Fleetwood remains hopeful, acknowledging, “I’m getting close to breaking through. The win will come.”
About the FedExCup Playoffs
The FedExCup Playoffs, launched in 2007, are the PGA Tour’s season-ending series consisting of three tournaments with limited fields based on player points.
The top 70 players qualify for the FedEx St. Jude Championship, with the top 50 advancing to the BMW Championship held in Maryland later this month. Winners of these events earn 2,000 FedExCup points, quadruple that of regular tour events, and there is no cut after 36 holes.
This structure intensifies competition as players vie for the season’s coveted FedExCup title.
