Sony Open 2026: Chris Gotterup celebrates perfect start to the PGA Tour season
Chris Gotterup wins the Sony Open 2026 and celebrates his third title on the PGA Tour. Everything about his victory, the prize money and his equipment in the bag.
The start of the 2026 PGA Tour season could hardly have been more eventful. At the historic Waialae Country Club in Hawaii, Chris Gotterup secured the title at the Sony Open with an impressive performance. With a final round of 64 (-6) and a total score of 16 under Par, the American left the competition in his wake and cemented his reputation as one of the Tour's rising stars.
Chris Gotterup dominates PGA Tour final day in Hawaii
Gotterup started the final day in the hunt, two shots behind the leader Davis Riley. While Riley had to contend with a dramatic collapse on holes 6 to 8 - where he lost four strokes due to two Bogeys and a double bogey - Gotterup remained focused.
The 26-year-old made the most of his physical superiority on the second nine holes in particular. Despite the classic course design, which actually rewards precision over distance, Gotterup attacked the course with tee shots of over 330 yards. But it was ultimately his putter that sealed the victory: long Birdie putts on the 12th and 13th gave him the cushion he needed before he made the decisive stroke on the 17th with a precise Iron.
"I had the feeling that I was in a good mental state this week," Gotterup summed up after his success. "I had my thoughts under control, which is the most important thing for me. I hit the Driver strong and holed the putts when it mattered."
The PGA Tour highlights in the video
Third win in third year on the PGA Tour
It is Gotterup's third victory in as many seasons on the PGA Tour. In the world rankings, he makes a huge set from 195th place (previous year) to 17th place. This success is no coincidence: the young professional recently moved to Florida to avoid the harsh winter months in Oklahoma and prepare optimally for the start of the season - a decision that is now paying off in hard cash.
Prize money distribution: A rewarding start to the 2026 PGA Tour season
The Sony Open was endowed with a total of 9.1 million US dollars. Here is an overview of the top placings and their prize money:
Equipment check: PGA Tour victory with the prototype ball
Gotterup not only caused a stir in professional circles with his performance, but also with his equipment. As a Bridgestone contract player, he teed off with the new Bridgestone VS Black Proto, a preview of the 2026 Tour B X model.
His winning bag at a glance:
- Driver: Ping G440 LST (9.0°)
- Irons (4-9): Bridgestone 220 MB
- Wedges: TaylorMade Milled Grind 5 (prototypes)
- Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour X L-Neck
- Ball: Bridgestone VS Black Proto
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Outlook: The PGA Tour moves on
While Gotterup celebrates his victory, the PGA Tour is already looking to the mainland. Next week, the pros will be making a guest appearance in La Quinta, California, at The American Express. For Gotterup, the aim there is to confirm his form and continue to recommend himself for a nomination in captain Brandt Snedeker's Presidents Cup team. With a twinkle in his eye, he set the agenda: "I hope Sneds was watching."
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Release date
19 Jan 2026
photos
Chris Gotterup wins the Sony Open in Hawaii, the first tournament of the new PGA Tour season. (Photo: Imago / Icon Sportswire)
