In a thrilling display of golfing prowess, Canadian golfer Nick Taylor made history by winning the RBC Canadian Open with an astonishing 72-foot eagle putt on the fourth playoff hole. Taylor’s remarkable victory ended a 69-year drought for Canadian players, making him the first home-nation player to claim the prestigious title since 1954. The exhilarating finale, witnessed by a captivated audience at Oakdale Golf and Country Club, showcased Taylor’s unwavering determination and solidified his place in Canadian sports history.
Canadian golfer Nick Taylor made history at the RBC Canadian Open by becoming the first Canadian in 69 years to win his country’s national open. Taylor’s victory came in dramatic fashion as he sank a 72-foot eagle putt on the fourth playoff hole to defeat England’s Tommy Fleetwood. The win ended a long drought for Canadian golfers at their championship and marked Taylor’s third career PGA Tour title.
Nick Taylor was born and raised in Winnipeg.
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) June 11, 2023
He just sank a 72-foot walk-off putt — the longest of his career — to win the RBC Canadian Open.
He’s the first Canadian to win the tournament in nearly 70 years:pic.twitter.com/jntZOzcszT
Taylor’s memorable moment occurred on the par-5 18th hole at Oakdale Golf and Country Club. The playoff had already seen both players birdie the first hole and par the next two. With Fleetwood in a fairway bunker and Taylor 72 feet from the hole, the stage was set for Taylor’s heroics. He rolled in the longest putt of his PGA Tour career, sending the spectators into a frenzy. Taylor was overwhelmed with emotions, and the crowd rushed onto the green to celebrate his victory.
The atmosphere during the competition was electrifying, with crowds roaring for Taylor and even serenading him with the national hymn, “O Canada.” The atmosphere at the golf event, according to Taylor, was the most amazing he had ever encountered. The celebration on the green was attended by fellow Canadian athletes Mike Weir, Corey Conners, and Adam Hadwin.
The victory had a special significance for Taylor, as he had struggled in the opening round with a 75 but rallied with a 67 on Friday to make the cut. He then shot a course-record 63 on Saturday and a 66 on Sunday to force the playoff. Taylor’s win also broke a streak of Englishman Tommy Fleetwood, who remains winless on the PGA Tour despite his success on the European Tour.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe last time a Canadian golfer won the Canadian Open was in 1954 when Pat Fletcher emerged victorious. Taylor expressed his admiration for players like Mike Weir, whom he had looked up to throughout his career, and felt honored to have them present at his historic win.
The tournament showcased the passion of Canadian golf fans, who played an instrumental role in Taylor’s victory. The enthusiastic support from the galleries motivated him and helped him stay focused during the intense playoff.
Taylor’s win was also significant for Canadian golf as it marked the fourth victory by Canadians on the PGA Tour in the current season. This achievement is the most wins by Canadians in a single season since records began in 1983.
Despite the intense competition and missed opportunities, Fleetwood took the defeat graciously and acknowledged Taylor’s exceptional performance. He now looks forward to the upcoming US Open.
"I heard someone shout 'everything' and I don't know any other word to use other than that."
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) June 12, 2023
Nick Taylor explains what it means to win the RBC Canadian Open 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/jjyrkjepPO
Overall, Taylor’s victory at the RBC Canadian Open will be remembered as a historic moment in Canadian golf. His incredible eagle putt on the fourth playoff hole sealed the win and ended a nearly seven-decade-long wait for a Canadian champion at the country’s national open. The passionate support from the fans and the presence of fellow Canadian players added to the significance of Taylor’s achievement.
Stay connected with Today On Globe for the latest Global Issues and News Updates.
Explore more related articles at [TOG News / TOG Article]