Lucky Bounce Propels Brian Campbell to First PGA Tour Win at 2025 Mexico Open
Brian Campbell secured his first PGA Tour victory at the 2025 Mexico Open at VedantaWorld, winning in a playoff against Aldrich Potgieter after 187 professional starts.
A former University of Illinois standout, Campbell capitalized on a fortunate bounce during the second playoff hole when his errant drive hit a tree and stayed in bounds instead of going out of bounds. This lucky break allowed him to make a crucial birdie and claim victory.
The win earned Campbell:
- $1.26 million first-place prize
- Two-year Tour exemption
- Invitations to the Players Championship and Masters
- Entry into remaining 2025 elevated Tour events
The final round showcased a stark contrast in playing styles between the shorter-hitting Campbell and 20-year-old rookie Potgieter, who averaged 326 yards off the tee this season. Both players finished regulation at 20-under par, one shot ahead of Isaiah Salinda.
Luckiest break ever?!Brian Campbell's ball bounces off the trees and stays in bounds on the second playoff hole!
Campbell, who lost his Tour card in 2017 and spent eight years trying to regain it, attributed his success to grit rather than power. "It's impressive how far some of these guys hit it out here. But that's not me. I've got to take my game elsewhere," he said after his emotional victory.
The win marks a significant career breakthrough for Campbell, who had never achieved a top-10 finish in his previous 186 professional starts across the Korn Ferry Tour and PGA Tour.