Nick Dunlap, a 20-year-old amateur, achieves a groundbreaking victory at the 2024 American Express. (Getty Images)
In a gripping display of skill and composure, amateur golfer Nick Dunlap etched his name into golfing history on Sunday evening in La Quinta, California, clinching victory at the 2024 American Express. The 20-year-old phenom's remarkable feat makes him the first amateur to triumph on the PGA Tour since the legendary Phil Mickelson achieved the feat in 1991.
Dunlap, currently the third-ranked amateur globally, now joins an elite group as only the third non-professional to secure a PGA Tour victory in the last six decades. His accomplishment stands as the eighth ever and is the youngest since the remarkable achievement back in 1910.
Setting a new tournament record at the American Express with an impressive score of 29 under, Dunlap's total of 259 opens up a realm of possibilities for the young golfer. While the victory doesn't come with a traditional winner's check, Dunlap is entitled to numerous perks, including a coveted two-year exemption on the PGA Tour. Additionally, he receives invitations to prestigious events like the Masters, PGA Championship, Players Championship, and other signature PGA Tour tournaments throughout the season. The budding golfer even has the option to kick off his 2025 season in Hawaii at The Sentry.
Reflecting on his historic win, Dunlap shared, "I felt like the script today was already written. I was just going to give it everything I had, and whether I go shoot 75 or 65 or 70, I was just going to give it everything I had."
Dunlap's journey to victory showcased his resilience and determination. After tying the PGA Tour amateur scoring record with a remarkable third-round 60, he entered the final round in Palm Springs with a three-stroke lead over competitor Sam Burns. The duo navigated the early holes with exchanged pars, but the tide turned on the par-4 7th when Dunlap encountered challenges, resulting in a double bogey and a tie ballgame with 11 holes remaining.
Despite the setback, Dunlap maintained his focus, showcasing his mettle with a birdie on the par-4 14th and an impressive up-and-down on the 16th to draw level. The crucial turning point came on the par-3 17th, where Dunlap's strategic play applied pressure on his competitors. Burns faltered, sending his tee shot into the water, and Dunlap seized the opportunity, ultimately securing a par to make history.
In the midst of the intense final moments, Dunlap admitted, "[The emotions] were nothing like I have ever felt. It is so cool. I told Sam numerous times, it is so cool to be out here and experience this as an amateur. ... If you would have told me Wednesday night that I would have a putt to win this golf tournament, I wouldn't believe you."
Nick Dunlap's triumph at the 2024 American Express not only marks a historic moment in golf but also sets the stage for an exciting chapter in the young golfer's promising career.
