T
NFL
Top Stories

Collin Morikawa Wins Honda Classic with Final-Round 67 to Claim Third PGA Tour Victory of 2026 Season

Lisa Nakamura
Lisa Nakamura
Golf Correspondent
12:19 AM
GOLF
Collin Morikawa Wins Honda Classic with Final-Round 67 to Claim Third PGA Tour Victory of 2026 Season
The two-time major champion shot a bogey-free final round to defeat Jason Day by two shots at PGA National and extend his lead in the FedEx Cup standings.

Collin Morikawa delivered a masterclass in precision golf on Sunday afternoon at PGA National Resort, firing a bogey-free final-round 67 to win the Honda Classic by two shots over Jason Day and claim his third PGA Tour victory of the 2026 season in a performance that showcased why many consider him the most complete player in professional golf.

The 27-year-old Californian was in complete control throughout the challenging final round, hitting 16 of 18 greens in regulation while needing just 27 putts on PGA National notoriously difficult Champion Course. Morikawa iron play was particularly spectacular, as he consistently found favorable positions on the greens and never faced a putt longer than 15 feet for birdie throughout the entire round.

That was one of the most satisfying rounds of golf I have played this year because PGA National demands such precision and course management, Morikawa said while holding the Honda Classic trophy. Every shot requires complete focus and commitment, and I felt like I was in complete control of my ball striking from the first tee. Winning here gives me tremendous confidence heading into the bigger events.

The victory was built on Morikawa exceptional approach play and improved putting stroke, as he gained significant strokes on the field in both statistical categories throughout the four-day tournament. His ability to control trajectory and spin with his irons allowed him to attack pins that other players could not access, while his mental toughness in pressure situations was evident during several crucial up-and-down saves.

Day fought valiantly throughout the final round despite ultimately falling short of his first PGA Tour victory since 2018, posting a solid 69 that included an eagle on the par-5 18th hole. The Australian veteran showed flashes of the form that once made him world No. 1, but he could not match Morikawa consistency and precision when the tournament was decided on the back nine.

The Honda Classic triumph extends Morikawa remarkable early-season form and moves him significantly ahead in the FedEx Cup standings as the PGA Tour heads toward its most important stretch of the year. His combination of elite ball-striking, improved putting, and championship experience makes him a dangerous contender for every tournament he enters.

Morikawa success at PGA National provides tremendous momentum heading into next week Players Championship, where he will attempt to add another signature victory to his already impressive resume. His methodical approach and ability to execute under pressure were evident throughout Sunday final round, as he never allowed the chasing field to apply sustained pressure.

With three wins already secured in 2026 and major championships on the horizon, Morikawa appears poised for what could be the finest season of his professional career and a potential run at the top of the world golf rankings.

Share this article

Comments

0

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts!