Up to 92-feet from the opening, off the entrance of the fairway and a shot at the back of chief Bubba Watson, it appeared like Harold Varner III’s alternative to win had slipped away.
Together with his trusty putter in hand, Varner went to paintings as though he was once a magician.
America golfer’s winding, weaving putt traversed the stainless inexperienced, ahead of slowly losing into the opening and sparking scenes of jubilant birthday party.
“I am simply looking to take it in. Successful simply by no means will get outdated. I simply know that there is been instances the place it simply did not cross my manner and nowadays it did. I am tremendous overjoyed no longer only for myself, however everybody that is both on my staff or in my nook.
“They know who they’re so I should not have to thank them. They know who they’re. My mother’s already known as. Yeah, I am pumped.”
Whilst it supposed Watson overlooked out on victory, seeing Varner — a pal of his — the style of his competitor’s win was once however a unique second.
After Varner sunk the huge putt, Watson ran down the 18th inexperienced to congratulate him.
“A man that I need to assist,” persevered Watson. “He is new — once I say new, we all know Harold, but it surely took me — it was once 5 years till I received my first.
“So, it is a man that is simply beginning to play higher and higher each and every yr. We see his identify a little bit bit extra. He is getting comfy.”
The 2-time Masters winner added: “I am not mad at him for beating me. I am glad for him … I applaud him. I like seeing that. I cheer for him.”