[PHOTO: Mike Mulholland]
Aldrich Potgieter became the youngest winner in Korn Ferry Tour history with his victory at the Bahamas Great Abaco Classic today.
The big bomber from South Africa – who was raised in Perth – shot a final-round 65 at the Abaco Club (which hosted this week’s event from Sunday to Wednesday, local time) thanks to birdies on four of his final seven holes, good enough for a 10-under total to beat Kyle Westmoreland and Quade Cummins by two shots.
At 19 years, 4 months and 11 days, Potgieter edged Jason Day’s previous mark from 2007 (19 years, 7 months and 26 day) on the PGA Tour’s feeder circuit. Potgieter also became the youngest winner across both tours since 1931.
The birdie that solidified @AldrichPotgiet3's victory. 🤩
Potgieter becomes the youngest winner across PGA TOUR and Korn Ferry Tour since 1931. pic.twitter.com/UJ51U19H1T
— Korn Ferry Tour (@KornFerryTour) January 24, 2024
Potgieter is best known for capturing the 2022 Amateur Championship at Royal Lytham & St Annes. At age of 17 he was the second youngest winner in the history of the championship, which dates back to 1885. He made the cut at last year’s US Open at Los Angeles Country Club, where he led the field in driving distance. Potgieter turned pro shortly after the US Open, and earned Korn Ferry status for 2024 thanks to medalling at the second stage of Q-School.
The win comes days after Nick Dunlap became the first amateur to win a PGA Tour event in more than 30 years. Dunlap, who is a year older than Potgieter, is expected to announce a decision regarding turning pro later this week.
