Joe Highsmith secured his first PGA Tour victory with an incredible comeback during the final two rounds of the Cognizant Classic at PGA National in Florida. The 24-year-old narrowly made the cut on Friday, sitting eight strokes behind the leaders, but stormed through the weekend with back-to-back rounds of seven-under par 64. His impressive performance set a clubhouse target of 19 under, marking the lowest 36-hole score in the tournament’s history and earning him a two-shot win.
Highsmith became the first player in nine years to win after making the cut on the number, a feat last achieved by Brandt Snedeker in 2016. Reflecting on his bogey-free final round, Highsmith called it "probably the best of my life," with a crucial stretch of four birdies in five holes from the ninth propelling him into contention. Meanwhile, overnight leader Jake Knapp saw his chances slip away after a costly triple-bogey at the par-four 11th, where he attempted to play his ball out of the water.
Highsmith finished two strokes ahead of compatriots Jacob Bridgeman and JJ Spaun, who carded 64 and 66 respectively. Max McGreevy and Ben Griffin shared fourth place, three strokes back. Knapp, who made history with a 59 in the opening round, ended tied for sixth after a final-round 72. Jordan Spieth finished tied for ninth, while Shane Lowry claimed tied-11th at 13 under.
The victory guarantees Highsmith entry into the remaining PGA Tour Signature Events this season, as well as invitations to The Masters for his major debut and the PGA Championship.
What’s Next?
The PGA Tour remains in Florida for the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard at Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler returns, alongside Rory McIlroy. Coverage begins at 12:30 PM on Sky Sports + and 4 PM on Sky Sports Golf, with full coverage starting at 7 PM. Get Sky Sports or stream with no contract on NOW.
