Howell’s 11-year, 333-tournament wait for a win is over

What happened at the RSM Classic?

Charles Howell III beat Patrick Rodgers in a play-off at Sea Island for his third PGA Tour title and first since 2007.

Howell had taken a one-shot advantage into the final round – the sixth 54-hole lead of his career, but he was yet to convert one into a victory.

So you can imagine what was going through his head when he found the water at the 2nd hole.

“I just honestly thought I had shot myself in the foot again,” Howell said.

But he held his nerve and saw out a final-round 67 which was enough to get him to 19-under alongside Rodgers, who had set the clubhouse target with a stunning 62.

After trading pars at the opening play-off hole, Howell drained a 15-foot birdie putt at the 2nd before slumping to his knees. The 11-year wait was finally over.

Final RSM Classic leaderboard

Talking Point

Precisely 11 years and nine months separated Howell’s win at the RSM Classic from his previous triumph at the Nissan Open in February 2007.

In that time, he played 333 tournaments and hit 81,693 competitive shots. And the small matter of earning more than $36 million.

But it was clear to see how much it meant to him.

“Quite honestly, I didn’t know if I would ever win one again,” Howell said. “I had come up short so many times.”

A true career golfer.

Highlights

Round 4 highlights:

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Play-off highlights:

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Howell’s post-win press conference:

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