Billy Horschel Wins BMW PGA Championship In Playoff

Thirston Lawrence of South Africa reacts to his putt on the 18th green during the final round of the British PGA golf Championship at Wentworth golf club in Wentworth, England, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024.

Billy Horschel made history at the BMW PGA Championship by becoming the first American golfer to win the prestigious tournament twice. The thrilling victory came in a playoff against four-time major winner Rory McIlroy at Virginia Water, England.

The 37-year-old Horschel displayed remarkable composure as he clinched the title with a spectacular eagle putt on the second playoff hole, sealing his second triumph at Virginia Water after his previous win three years ago.

Horschel expressed his deep connection to the event, stating, 'It’s always one of my most special weeks of the year. I enjoy coming here. I feel a sense of ease, I feel a sense of calm. I know I’m not from the U.K. or London or England but I feel almost at home when I come here.'

He defeated Rory McIlroy in a playoff at Virginia Water, England.

Billy Horschel wins BMW PGA Championship for the second time.

Horschel clinched victory with a spectacular eagle putt on the second playoff hole.

Both Horschel and McIlroy finished at 20 under, forcing a playoff.

Thriston Lawrence also joined the playoff but was outlasted by Horschel and McIlroy.

Rory McIlroy praised the high level of competition at the event.

Heading into the final round, Horschel and McIlroy were tied for second place, three strokes behind the leader, Matteo Manassero of Italy. Both Horschel and McIlroy carded impressive 5-under 67s to finish at 20 under, forcing a playoff with South African Thriston Lawrence, who also ended at the same score after a stellar 65.

In the playoff, McIlroy and Horschel outlasted Lawrence, with McIlroy eventually succumbing to Horschel's brilliance on the second extra hole. Reflecting on his performance, McIlroy acknowledged the high level of competition, stating, 'It just shows the standard out here. If you slip up just a little bit or don’t make a birdie on a crucial hole, someone is always waiting to take advantage of that.'

Despite his strong showing, McIlroy, ranked No. 3 in the world, now has three runner-up finishes at Wentworth, with his last victory at the event coming in 2014.

Manassero, the 2013 champion, missed out on another title as he finished tied for fourth place with Englishmen Matthew Baldwin and Aaron Rai at 17 under. A victory would have put Manassero in contention for next year’s Ryder Cup and a chance to secure one of the 10 PGA Tour cards available annually from the European tour.

The tournament showcased the fierce competition and the unwavering determination of the golfers, culminating in a historic win for Billy Horschel at the BMW PGA Championship.

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