There was no raining on Finau’s parade at the Northern Trust Open. The 31-year-old has had more close calls than any tour professional would like to count, but that’s now history as the ultra-talented Utahan claimed his second PGA Tour victory, the first in his last 143 starts. In what can best be described as an unusual week, one that saw Sunday’s round postponed on Saturday evening as Hurricane Henri battered the shores of New Jersey’s Liberty National Golf Club, fans were treated to extra innings on Monday night to extended what was already a particularly drawn-out week.
It was Australia’s Cameron Smith who stood between Finau and his long-awaited second win. The Aussie Smith entered his 72nd hole tied for the lead after consecutive birdies on 16 and 17, but made par on the last to tie Finau in the clubhouse. However, Smith’s late-round charge was quickly blunted on the first playoff hole after blowing his drive out of bounds, giving Finau a brief, but no less enjoyable, coronation down the 18th fairway. With the win, Finau moves to first in the FedExCup standings and secures his spot at the Tour Championship.
Who’s Out?
Some notable names will not be advancing to the BMW Championship. Matthew Wolff is the latest tour bubble boy, finishing 71st in the standings and just one spot away from qualifying for the 70-man field at next week’s event. Bubba Watson, Adam Scott, Jason Day and Gary Woodland have also failed to advance. And who else but Lefty, Phil Mickelson, would squeak their way through to the BMW Championship in the 70th position? Phil somehow entertains and excites, even after missing the cut this week.
Canadian Contingent
Corey Conners and Mackenzie Hughes, both of whom represented Canada at the Olympics, have advanced, going into next week at 20th and 65th in the standings, respectively. They’ll look to continue their fine play and hopefully qualify for the Tour Championship, and with it a host of major and invitational starts in 2022.
What’s Next?
The FedExCup playoffs move to Caves Valley Golf Club in Owings Mills, Maryland, where 70 players will compete at the BMW Championship. The tournament will take place from August 26-29 and will be the last event of the season for 40 pros as the top 30 head to East Lake Golf Club to conclude the playoffs and compete for a chance at $15 million and the title of FedExCup Champion.
