Jacob Bridgeman Edges Rory McIlroy to Win Genesis Invitational

Posted : 23 February 2026

Jacob Bridgeman captured his first PGA Tour title with a dramatic one-shot victory over Rory McIlroy at the Genesis Invitational in Los Angeles. Despite McIlroy’s impressive four-under-par 67 in the final round, the Northern Irishman fell just short as Bridgeman closed with a one-over 72 to finish at 18 under par. McIlroy, who began the day six shots behind, mounted a strong charge with five birdies but ultimately shared second place at 17 under.

Bridgeman had started the final round with a commanding seven-shot advantage, but a nervy back nine, which included three bogeys, allowed the chasing pack to close in. The 26-year-old American showed remarkable composure on the 18th green, where he calmly converted a three-foot putt to seal the win.

Overcome with emotion, he celebrated a breakthrough triumph that also made him the first player since 1975 to win the prestigious tournament on debut. The victory continues an impressive start to his season, following two top-10 finishes in his first four events, including an eighth-place finish at Pebble Beach.

McIlroy’s challenge gathered momentum on the back nine at Riviera Country Club. After an even-par front nine, he surged with four birdies coming home, highlighted by a spectacular bunker hole-out on the 12th.

A long 30-foot putt on the 18th briefly intensified the pressure on Bridgeman, but the American held his nerve in front of tournament host Tiger Woods to secure the title. The win lifts Bridgeman into the world’s top 25 for the first time.

Reflecting on his performance, McIlroy admitted missed opportunities earlier in the tournament proved costly. While he was pleased with improved control compared to last week’s AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am — where costly double bogeys derailed his chances — he acknowledged that hesitation on the greens hindered his momentum. Even so, the world number two expressed confidence that his overall game remains in strong shape.

Elsewhere, Kurt Kitayama joined McIlroy in a tie for second after a superb seven-under 64. England’s Tommy Fleetwood carded a 67 to finish tied seventh at 12 under, highlighted by a stunning eagle on the 15th from 173 yards.

World number one Scottie Scheffler closed with a 65 to finish tied 12th, ending his remarkable streak of 18 consecutive top-10 finishes on the PGA Tour. England’s Marco Penge, who had shared the lead after round two, settled for a tie for 16th at 10 under. Max Greyserman also provided a memorable moment with a hole-in-one at the 14th, though a challenging round of 73 limited his overall finish.

Jacob Bridgeman Edges Rory McIlroy to Win Genesis Invitational

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