Patrick Reed dominates in Qatar: Victory paves the way back to the PGA Tour

Patrick Reed is probably the hottest player in world golf at the moment. With his victory at the Qatar Masters at Doha Golf Club, the US American crowned an impressive week-long series in the Middle East. But there is a cool calculation behind the trophies: a strategic return to the PGA Tour.

It was a Sunday that could have mirrored Patrick Reed's entire career: A bumpy start, doubts from critics and a triumph executed in ice-cold style at the end. With an overall score of 16 under Par and a two-shot lead over Scotland's Calum Hill, the 35-year-old Reed secured the coveted DP World Tour trophy in Qatar.

However, midway through the final round, it by no means looked like a certain victory. Reed, who had started the day with a two-shot lead, lost his rhythm over the first nine holes. While Finland's Oliver Lindell overtook him with a series of Birdies, Reed struggled with his Putter and needed 18 putts on the front nine alone. "It didn't look good out there at times," the 2018 Masters winner later admitted frankly.

Here you can find the final result of the Qatar Masters of the DP World Tour.

Strong back nine secures DP World Tour victory

But anyone who knows Patrick Reed knows about his mental resilience. The tide turned just in time for the turn. He reclaimed the lead with Birdies on 10 and 11 and controlled the action from then on. While pursuers such as Calum Hill and Jacob Skov Olesen (tied 3rd) had to take risks on the final holes, Reed played in a tactically disciplined manner. A precise Iron on the dangerous 14th hole sealed the lead, which he brought into the clubhouse with safe Pars.

"Two wins and a second place in three weeks - that's fantastic," summarized Reed. "I'm particularly proud of the way I flipped the switch today when the momentum seemed to be going against me."

Strategic masterpiece: the escape to the front

Much more exciting than the sporting victory, however, is the "big picture" behind Reed's performance on the DP World Tour. Just a few weeks ago, the US American made headlines when he did not renew his contract with the Saudi Arabian LIV League and announced his return to the PGA Tour. What many considered to be a risky venture is now turning out to be a stroke of genius. Thanks to the cooperation between the major tours, the top ten players in the European annual ranking (Race to Dubai) who are not already eligible to compete on the PGA Tour will receive full eligibility to play on the US Tour in the following season.

With his victory in Qatar, Reed effectively achieved this goal back in February. With over 2,200 points, he leads the rankings so dominantly that the ticket for 2027 is unlikely to be taken away from him. What's more, by jumping back into the top 20 of the world rankings, Reed has secured his place at all four major tournaments in 2026 - a privilege that is currently denied to many of his former LIV colleagues.

A new goal for Patrick Reed this season

Reed seems to have taken a liking to the role of the hunted in Europe. His sights are now set on a historic milestone: "It has always been a dream of mine as an American to win the season ranking in Europe." If he succeeds, he would be only the second US pro after Collin Morikawa to achieve this feat.

The competition has been warned: Patrick Reed is no longer just playing against the field, he is playing for his legacy.

The DP World Tour highlights in the video