Full Breakdown
Stewart Cink Claims First Senior Major Title at Senior PGA Championship
4/21/2026, 12:26:14 PM
Dominant Performance at Concession Golf Club
Stewart Cink secured his first senior major title on April 19, 2026, with a commanding six-shot victory at the Senior PGA Championship held at Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, Florida. Cink entered the final round one shot behind the leader but quickly established control over the tournament. He delivered a remarkable final round of 9-under 63, finishing with a total score of 19-under 269, just one stroke shy of the all-time scoring record set by Sam Snead in 1973.
Cink's decisive performance was marked by a pivotal stretch in the middle of his round. He ignited his charge with an eagle on the par-5 seventh hole, followed by consecutive birdies that allowed him to turn a narrow deficit into a significant lead. A standout moment came at the par-3 11th hole, where he sank a 35-foot birdie putt, contributing to a five-hole stretch where he played at 5-under par. This series of successful shots effectively distanced him from the competition.
Field Struggles to Keep Pace
While Cink surged ahead, the rest of the field struggled to maintain their positions. Ben Crane, in his debut at the Senior PGA Championship, finished in second place with a closing round of 68. Overnight leader Keith Horne faced difficulties, including a costly double bogey on the 12th hole, which ended his chances of competing with Cink. Scott Hend and Steve Allan tied for third, both finishing with rounds of 71 but failing to mount a serious challenge.
A Resurgent Chapter in Cink's Career
Cink's victory adds a significant chapter to his already decorated career, which includes a major championship win at the 2009 Open Championship. Competing on the PGA Tour Champions, he has demonstrated remarkable consistency, having not posted a round over par in his first 16 rounds of the season. With three victories already this year, along with a runner-up finish and no results worse than a tie for sixth, Cink's transition to the senior circuit has been seamless.
In reflecting on his win, Cink expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, “To win a tournament like this... it feels great.” He emphasized the validation of his efforts alongside his team, highlighting the significance of the trophy he earned.
Official Statements & Responses
Cink's performance has drawn attention to his adaptability and skill on the PGA Tour Champions. His ability to maintain a record of never finishing a round over par this season underscores his form and consistency. The tournament showcased not only his talent but also the challenges faced by his competitors, particularly Horne, who struggled to keep pace after leading earlier in the event.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Today was just one of the best rounds I’ve played as a professional golfer,” — Stewart Cink
- “To win a tournament like this, back to four rounds on a golf course like this, full field – this trophy is so heavy can hardly pick it up – it feels great,” — Stewart Cink
Cink's victory at the Senior PGA Championship marks a significant milestone in his career, reinforcing his status as a formidable competitor in senior golf.
