Aussie Milestones
Jason Day’s long elated wait
Axel Bailey
For us, 1,835 Days might seem like a while, but for others, it seems like an eternity. Australian golfer Jason Day ended his five-year title drought last Sunday, securing victory at the Byron Nelson Tournament on the PGA Tour. Day, 35 years old, had not tasted victory since his win at the Wells Fargo Championship in May 2018. However, his impressive performance at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas, with a nine-under-part 62, earned him a one-stroke win over South Korea’s Kim Si-woo and American Austin Eckroat.
Day’s first-ever PGA Tour win came at the same tournament 13 years ago, albeit at a different venue in suburban Dallas. Reflecting on his victory, Day expressed his delight and acknowledged the challenging years he had endured since his last win. He attributed his return to form to his determination and the ability to overcome a nagging back injury, which had hampered his performance.
Day’s journey back to the winner’s circle was filled with perseverance and dedication. He shared, “Just non-stop grinding and non-stop wanting to improve and to try and get better. A lot of injuries with my back… just trying to get through those three years, just trying to get through a tournament was difficult. So, to be on the other side of it, to be healthy…really winning again. It’s so good to be on the other side.”
The Australian golfer’s momentum surged after three consecutive birdies from the third hole onward, but his standout moment came on the par-4 12th when he chipped in from an impressive 37 feet for another birdie. With Kim matching his score and taking the lead with a birdie on the 18th hole, Day knew he needed to secure a birdie on the final hole to avoid a playoff. Rising to the occasion, Day executed a fantastic 80-yard approach shot, landing just two feet from the hole, allowing for an easy birdie and securing the victory.
In the final group, Eckroat needed an eagle on the last hole to force a playoff with Day. Unfortunately, his approach shot went over the back of the green, forcing him to settle for a birdie and a final round of 65. Eckroat acknowledged Day’s stellar performance: “Everything was solid, and I felt like I played well enough to win. It’s just hard to beat a guy that goes out and shoots 9-under.”
World number two, Scottie Scheffler, had a disappointing third round but showed promise with four birdies on the front nine. However, a missed birdie putt on the last hole dashed his chances of contending for the title, and he ultimately finished in a share of fifth place. Scheffler will now shift his focus to the upcoming PGA Championship at Oak Hill.
Day’s victory not only ended his winless streak but also demonstrated his resilience in the face of adversity. He showcased his exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament, culminating in a memorable performance on the final day. With renewed confidence and health, Jason Day has re-established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the PGA Tour, and his triumph at the Byron Nelson tournament marks an important milestone in his career.