Ricky Castillo Secures First PGA Tour Victory at Puerto Rico Open

Ricky Castillo achieved his first PGA Tour victory at the 2026 Puerto Rico Open, held at Grand Reserve Golf Club in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. Castillo finished the tournament with a score of 17-under 271, securing a one-shot win over Chandler Blanchet, who also shot a final-round 67. Castillo's victory marks a significant milestone, as he becomes the 100th golfer from the University of Florida to win on the PGA Tour.

2026 Puerto Rico Open final results: Prize money payout, PGA Tour leaderboard and how much each golfer wonRicky Castillo wins first career PGA TOUR tournament at Puerto Rico OpenRicky Castillo Leads Dramatic Chase at Puerto Rico OpenUSA TodayRicky Castillo pulls out first PGA Tour win at Puerto Rico OpenESPNRicky Castillo Takes Lead at Puerto Rico Open with Stunning RoundWith grandma’s memory around neck and newfound mental strength, Ricky Castillo breaks through in Puerto Rico

Castillo entered the final round with a one-shot lead and maintained his composure throughout, carding a bogey-free 67. A pivotal moment came when he made a chip-in eagle on the par-5 sixth hole, followed by a birdie on the par-3 seventh. Despite challenges from competitors, including 18-year-old Blades Brown, who was vying to become the youngest PGA Tour winner in nearly a century, Castillo held firm. Brown's chances faltered after a triple bogey on the par-4 13th hole, ultimately finishing third at 14-under.

Ricky Castillo pulls out first PGA Tour win at Puerto Rico Open

Before his victory, Castillo faced a challenging start to his professional career, having lost his PGA Tour card earlier in the season. His journey included a notable performance at the Korn Ferry Tour, where he won in his debut. Castillo's recent success can be attributed to improvements in his mental and emotional game, aided by sports psychologist Dr. Gio Valiante. This mental fortitude was crucial as he navigated the pressures of the final round.

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Following his win, Castillo expressed his emotions, stating, "It's really cool to put into words to be able to win my first event." He acknowledged the support of his family, particularly honoring his late grandmother, Lydia, whose memory he carries with him. Castillo's father, Mark, shared his disbelief at the victory, having avoided following the live coverage until the conclusion of the tournament.

With grandma’s memory around neck and newfound mental strength, Ricky Castillo breaks through in Puerto Rico

While Castillo celebrated his win, Blades Brown's performance drew attention as he struggled with a critical hole that cost him the lead. Brown reflected on his experience, noting, "I learned that you've got to put four rounds together and it's not easy out here." This sentiment highlights the challenges faced by young players on the PGA Tour.

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With this victory, Castillo earns exemptions into prestigious events, including The Players Championship and the PGA Championship. He is set to compete next at TPC Sawgrass, where he aims to build on his recent success. Castillo's win not only elevates his status on the tour but also positions him as a rising star in professional golf.

Ricky Castillo wins first career PGA TOUR tournament at Puerto Rico Open

• “I know my grandma’s looking down right now, just smiling,” — Ricky Castillo, PGA Tour Winner

With grandma’s memory around neck and newfound mental strength, Ricky Castillo breaks through in Puerto Rico

• “I learned that you've got to put four rounds together and it's not easy out here.” — Blades Brown, PGA Tour Rookie

USA Today

• “… That was the biggest thing for me. I felt like I just really just didn’t even really worry about where anyone else was, I was just kind of understanding like I’m going to just play my game, and if that’s the best at the end, then it is.” — Ricky Castillo, reflecting on his focus during the tournament.

With grandma’s memory around neck and newfound mental strength, Ricky Castillo breaks through in Puerto Rico