Rose triumphs over Spaun in a playoff to clinch victory at St. Jude tournament
Justin Rose Wins FedEx St. Jude Championship in Thrilling Playoff
Justin Rose claimed victory at the 2025 FedEx St. Jude Championship, securing the first leg of the PGA Tour's season-ending, three-tournament playoffs. Rose's winning strategy was built on a strong ball control offense and timely clutch shots, particularly on key holes down the stretch.
On the par-3 14th hole, Rose demonstrated his precision with an approach shot that landed within 15 feet of a tucked pin on the right side, shifting momentum in his favour. This critical shot marked the beginning of his late surge.
Rose followed up with four consecutive birdies on the back nine, including clutch putts on holes 16 and 17. His performance on these closing holes showcased his resilience in high-pressure moments.
Key holes that defined his victory included the par-3 14th, where his approach shot set the stage for a strong finish, and holes 16 and 17, where Rose made crucial birdie putts to maintain his momentum.
J.J. Spaun, the reigning U.S. Open champion, also qualified for the playoff, having birdied two of his final three holes in regulation to join Rose. Tommy Fleetwood, who held a two-stroke lead with three holes to play in the final round, was unable to hold on, finishing at 15 under in the tournament.
In the playoff, Rose and Spaun both had birdie putts on the first hole lip out, forcing a return trip to No. 18. On their second tries, Rose and Spaun converted birdie putts, with Spaun's coming from 30 feet. Rose's birdie secured the victory, making him the new champion of the FedEx St. Jude Championship.
Despite missing practice rounds and the Wednesday pro-am due to illness, Rose's performance in the tournament was not affected. He shot 3-under 67 to finish at 16-under 264 in the tournament, passing Scottie Scheffler on the back nine.
Rose's win at the FedEx St. Jude Championship marks a significant milestone in his career, as it is his first win on the PGA Tour in 15 years. His strategic play, mental toughness, and clutch shots down the stretch proved to be the deciding factors in this exciting tournament.
Golf was the game Justin Rose excelled in during the FedEx St. Jude Championship, as his precision and ball control significantly contributed to his win. On the par-3 14th hole, Rose's approach shot gave a testament to his golfing skills, landing within 15 feet of the tucked pin on the right side and setting the stage for his late surge.
