Karl Vilips has made headlines after earning a last-minute invitation to The Players and achieving a historic victory at the Puerto Rico Open, becoming the first golfer to win on the PGA Tour while representing Tiger Woods’ clothing line.
In just his fourth PGA Tour appearance, Vilips delivered a remarkable final round of eight-under 64 at Grand Reserve Golf Club, concluding the event at an impressive 26 under par for a three-shot win.
The 23-year-old athlete recently became an ambassador for Woods’ “Sun Day Red” apparel, making this victory significant as the first on the PGA Tour for this brand. Vilips shared that he received encouraging messages from Woods during and after his game-changing win.
Reflecting on his emotional victory, Vilips stated, “It was tough because I got on my phone after the round and was just scrolling through messages. I got a voicemail saying it’s Tiger and I couldn’t process it in the moment, but it’s pretty cool.”
“I signed the deal with Sun Day Red three weeks ago, so it’s special for a Sun Day Red player to get a win so soon. It reinforces why they chose me to represent their brand, and I’m proud to do it authentically,” he added.
This impressive win not only secures Vilips a spot in The Players at TPC Sawgrass and the PGA Championship in May, but it also provides him with a two-year exemption on the PGA Tour.
Excited about upcoming tournaments, Vilips expressed, “I’m just thrilled to sleep in my own bed, cook my own meals, and be with my roommates. It’s going to be a lot of fun having a home tournament.” He moved to Jacksonville in November and is looking forward to playing on a familiar course.
Vilips also mentioned, “My goal was to qualify for The Players, and winning this week was essential. It’s a dream come true to participate in that tournament.”
Despite a strong challenge from Denmark’s Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen, who birdied six consecutive holes to briefly take the lead, Vilips regained control with a series of birdies, finishing strong to secure his victory. Neergaard-Petersen ended the tournament with a closing 63, while Joseph Bramlett finished five strokes back in third place.
As excitement builds around The Players tournament, which will take place from March 13-16, golf fans are eager to see who will claim victory. Live coverage of the opening round begins on Thursday at 11:30 AM.
