Genesis Invitational: Rory McIlroy finishes one shot behind Genesis winner Jacob Bridgeman
BBC World
February 23, 2026
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Rory McIlroy came up just one shot short of victory at the Genesis Invitational in Los Angeles, as Jacob Bridgeman claimed his first PGA Tour title in a thrilling final round. Despite shooting a four-under-par 67, McIlroy was unable to overtake the American, who secured a one-shot win with a one-over-par 72. Bridgeman’s victory is historic, as he becomes the first player since 1975 to win the prestigious event in his tournament debut. The 26-year-old displayed remarkable composure under pressure, especially after bogeying three times on the final day at Riviera Country Club. McIlroy, who started six shots behind, made a strong push with five birdies but fell just short of overtaking Bridgeman.
Bridgeman’s victory was far from straightforward. He held a seven-shot lead early in the round but faced intense pressure from McIlroy and other competitors, including Kurt Kitayama, who finished tied for second alongside McIlroy on 17 under. McIlroy, ranked world number two, delivered a strong performance on the back nine, including a spectacular hole-out birdie from a greenside bunker on the 12th hole. However, Bridgeman’s nerve held in the closing stages, despite a bogey on the 16th and a three-foot putt left short on the 18th green. His victory not only marks his breakthrough moment but also moves him into the top 25 of the world rankings
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/23/2026