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Thomas Bjorn of Denmark poses with the Stifel Charity Classic 2025 trophy after winning in a playoff at Norwood Hills Country Club on September 7, 2025.
Thomas Bjørn delivered a moment for the ages in St. Louis, sinking a stunning long-range birdie on the first playoff hole to capture his inaugural individual victory on the PGA Tour Champions. Though he’s no stranger to success, including 15 European Tour titles and a legendary Ryder Cup captaincy, this dramatic triumph added a standout chapter to his senior-tour resume.
Facing Australian Cameron Percy, Bjørn matched his opponent through regulation, then sent the crowd roaring as his playoff putt dropped in from 35 feet on the par-4 18th. Percy’s attempt, from just a bit closer, slipped by the edge, sealing Bjørn’s breakthrough moment.
A Season of Firsts and Resurgence
The win at the Stifel Charity Classic marks Bjørn’s first-ever solo PGA Tour Champions title–coming after a previous senior victory alongside Darren Clarke earlier in the year. In June, the Dane claimed the American Family Insurance Championship in a team format, making his solo triumph even sweeter.
At 54, Bjørn continues to prove that experience and composure can still dominate. His stay in contention throughout regulation, followed by a cool finish under pressure, reminds fans why he ranked among Europe’s all-time golfing elite. From Ryder Cup captain to champion of his own playoff, the arc of this season is impossible to ignore.
Throughout the tournament, Bjørn’s scorecard told the story of consistency and timely brilliance. He carded multiple birdies in each round, balancing aggressive play with steady pars to stay in the hunt. His final-round 67 included clutch birdies on the back nine that kept him level with Percy and ultimately set the stage for his playoff heroics. The clean scorecard–with limited mistakes and sharp recovery shots–reflected the veteran’s ability to manage pressure while still seizing scoring opportunities. He carded 65-69-67 over his final three rounds.
Nerves, Birdies, and Near Misses
Bjørn’s closing 4-under-par 67 matched Percy’s surge, as Percy made a late push–winning three of the final four holes in regulation to force the playoff. Tension mounted, holes were won and lost, and the playoff hole became the ultimate stage.
On that 18th, Bjørn’s putt found the bottom of the cup with exquisite timing. It was a reward for decades of precision, poise, and playoff experience. Meanwhile, Alex Cejka inadvertently provided the tightest road to the playoff by dropping a bogey on the final hole–three-putting his way out of a spot in extra holes.
This win shines a light on Bjørn’s enduring class and competitive spirit. Not only does it enrich his Champions Tour credentials (his second win of the year), but it also reinforces his ability to perform when the spotlight is brightest.
For the PGA Tour Champions, Bjørn’s finish is a reminder that the senior ranks feature the same drama, pressure, and heroics as any major event. He holds the ninth spot on the rankings list. For fans, particularly those who followed his Ryder Cup leadership or European intrigues, seeing Bjørn rise again on the playoff stage is an emotional win in itself.
What Comes Next for Bjørn?
Momentum loves company, and Bjørn now rides a wave of confidence fortified by his clutch victory. Will he pivot into more senior tournaments with further dominance? Given his form and nerve under pressure, that seems like a fair bet.
Moreover, his win underscores a broader narrative: golfers who defined eras can still make defining moments in their later careers. As the PGA Tour Champions season presses on, keep an eye on Bjørn; he’s firmly planted back in the spotlight.
Alyssa Polczynski Alyssa Polczynski is a multimedia journalist covering Major League Baseball for Heavy.com. She has experience as an editorial producer for MLB.com and contributed to the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR). More about Alyssa Polczynski
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