Rose establishes scoring record in dominant win at Torrey Pines
SAN DIEGO — Justin Rose achieved the distinction of being the first wire-to-wire victor at Torrey Pines in 71 years, beginning with a six-shot advantage and maintaining that lead throughout Sunday, finishing with a 2-under 70 to secure the Farmers Insurance Open.
Rose commenced with a 62 on the North course at Torrey Pines and consistently performed well throughout the week, excelling even further on the South course, which has hosted two U.S. Opens. He ultimately set a new 72-hole tournament record at 23-under 265, surpassing Tiger Woods’ mark from 1999. George Burns also recorded a score of 266 in 1987.
“Apologies, T-dub, if you’re watching,” Rose remarked.
His primary challenge was to set smaller objectives to keep himself motivated—he aimed to extend his lead each day and was mindful of the tournament record. He accomplished both goals.
Tommy Bolt in 1955 is the only other player to lead from start to finish without ties at Torrey Pines.
The 45-year-old Englishman expressed that he would not become complacent, which was evident as Rose made the turn in 33, sinking a 35-foot birdie putt on the par-5 ninth that transformed the back nine—indeed, the entire day—into what appeared to be a serene stroll along the public course by the Pacific Ocean.
The tournament enjoyed one of its finest weeks of weather, even by San Diego standards. The only element missing was drama, which suited Rose just fine.
This was primarily a contest for second place, which ended in a tie. Si Woo Kim (69), Ryo Hisatsune (69), and Pierceson Coody (66) shared the runner-up position, a consolation prize valued at $726,400. For Coody, this result is likely to qualify him for a couple of $20 million signature events concluding the West Coast Swing.
Brooks Koepka concluded his return to the PGA Tour after leaving LIV Golf, receiving familiar cheers on the ninth green as he tapped in a birdie putt for a 70. Approximately 300 spectators gathered around the green, most of them chanting, “Welcome back, Brooks.”
He departed for Phoenix later Sunday, heading to the loudest event in golf. “I love the chaos,” Koepka stated.
Rose, who previously won at Torrey Pines in 2019, now boasts 13 career titles on the PGA Tour. He ascends to No. 4 in the world rankings, his highest position in over six years. Despite his numerous achievements, including a U.S. Open title, an Olympic gold medal, and seven Ryder Cup appearances, he continues to put in the effort to remain among golf’s elite.
“I still believe there’s good stuff in front of me,” Rose expressed.
He considered his performance at Torrey Pines in 2019 to be among his finest, and this outing surpassed it. It may have held even greater significance, as his longtime caddie, Mark Fulcher, was hospitalized with heart issues in 2019.
“Now he’s got one for himself,” Rose noted.
