Rising Star Matt McCarty Wins First PGA Tour Title
In a thrilling finale, 26-year-old left-hander Matt McCarty clinched his first PGA Tour title at the Black Desert Championship, securing a three-shot victory with a 4-under 67. This win marks a significant milestone in McCarty’s career, earning him a spot in three majors next year, including the Masters and PGA Championship.
A Dream Season for McCarty
McCarty’s journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting the year on the Korn Ferry Tour, he won three times to earn an instant promotion to the PGA Tour in August. In just his third start on the tour, he made winning look effortless, never trailing at Black Desert Resort.
A Decisive Swing
The turning point came on the 310-yard 14th hole, where McCarty hit a stunning 3-wood that bounded onto the green, settling just 3 1/2 feet from the cup for an eagle. This shot effectively ended any threat from Stephan Jaeger, who had closed within one shot with birdies on the 14th and 15th holes.
Jaeger’s Late Charge
Jaeger, who had gone toe-to-toe with Scottie Scheffler to win the Houston Open in March, managed only one birdie on the front nine. However, he made a late move with birdies on the 13th and 14th holes, closing within one shot of McCarty. Despite his efforts, Jaeger ultimately finished alone in second place with a 68.
McCarty’s Victory
McCarty’s win makes him the first player since Jason Gore to win three times on the developmental tour to earn an instant promotion and then win on the PGA Tour in the same season. He finished at 23-under 261, earning $1.35 million and cementing his position as a rising star in the golf world.
A Crazy Last Few Months
For McCarty, this win is the culmination of a dream season. “I don’t know how you can expect this,” he said. “It’s just a lot of fun. I’ve been working really hard. This year was great for me. To get out here a little early, to get some experience was great and obviously this now. It’s just been a crazy last few months for me.”
Streelman’s Fight for a Tour Card
In a separate storyline, Kevin Streelman fought hard to keep his PGA Tour card for 2025. Coming in at No. 177, every shot mattered. Despite missing a 6-foot birdie putt on the 16th hole, Streelman managed to save par and birdied the 18th for a 69. This moved him to No. 138, getting him closer to the top 125 with at least four more tournaments left in the fall.
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