Gotterup Completes Remarkable Ascent with Sony Open Victory, Elvira Triumphs in Dubai
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A stunning display of composure and clutch putting propelled Chris Gotterup to victory at the Sony Open in Honolulu on Sunday, while Nacho Elvira capitalized on late-round struggles from top contenders to win the Dubai Invitational.
On January 19, 2026, Gotterup, draped in leis and celebrating with champagne, completed a remarkable journey from being overlooked as a rookie to hoisting the gold Sony Open trophy. The win marks his third PGA Tour victory in just three years and elevates him to No. 17 in the world rankings.
From Rookie Disappointment to Championship Glory
Gotterup’s path to success wasn’t without its hurdles. He recalled being part of the 2024 rookie class that arrived in Honolulu only to discover there wasn’t room for them in the field. A missed cut last year further fueled his determination. “I just felt like this week I was in a good frame of mind, just happy to be here,” Gotterup stated. “I felt like I was in control of my brain, which is the most important thing. I drove it great and made some putts when it mattered.”
His final-round 6-under 64, totaling 16-under 264 for the tournament, proved decisive. He finished two shots ahead of Ryan Gerard, who secured second place with a strong finish, birdying his last two holes. Gerard’s performance builds on his runner-up finish in Mauritius late last year, solidifying his position just outside the top 30 and earning him a coveted spot in the Masters.
Rodgers Falls Short, Riley’s Bid Unravels
Patrick Rodgers, still seeking his first PGA Tour victory, finished third after a 65, despite struggling to find momentum on the back nine. He acknowledged a lack of consistency with his putter. “Unfortunately, didn’t have a hot putter today,” Rodgers said, adding that he now has nine top-3 finishes since 2015.
The tournament also saw a dramatic shift in fortunes for 54-hole leader Davis Riley. A promising start with two birdies through five holes quickly dissolved as consecutive three-putt bogeys and a wayward drive led to a double bogey. He ultimately closed with a 71, tying for sixth.
“It was anyone’s tournament,” Gotterup explained. “Then I made a couple nice putts and I saw a couple people drop back. I know Ryan played a great tournament and he tried to make a run at the end. Couple other guys played great and I just held them off.”
Elvira Secures Dubai Invitational Title Amidst Ryder Cup Stars’ Struggles
Across the globe in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Nacho Elvira secured his third European tour title at the Dubai Invitational. The 190th-ranked Elvira navigated the challenging 18th hole flawlessly, carding a par for a 2-under 69 and finishing at 10-under 274 – one stroke ahead of Daniel Hillier (65).
The victory was largely influenced by late-round collapses from Ryder Cup stars Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry. Lowry, briefly holding a lead on the 18th, found a greenside bunker and then water, resulting in a double bogey. McIlroy, also in contention, succumbed to a bogey from a bunker.
Elvira’s steady play proved to be the difference. He demonstrated the importance of avoiding costly errors, particularly on the demanding final hole.
