PGA Tour Rookie Missed Call From Tiger Woods After Maiden Victory At Puerto Rico Open

PGA Tour Rookie Missed Call From Tiger Woods After Maiden Victory At Puerto Rico Open

By Michael Thompson

March 10, 2025 at 03:31 PM

Australian Karl Vilips secured his first PGA Tour victory at the Puerto Rico Open, shooting a final-round 64 to finish at 26-under par, three shots ahead of Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen at Grand Reserve Golf Club.

Man holding gold Wimbledon trophy

Man holding gold Wimbledon trophy

The 23-year-old from Perth earned entry into The Players Championship and PGA Championship, plus a two-year PGA Tour exemption. Notably, he became Sun Day Red's first brand ambassador to win since the clothing line's February 2024 launch.

After his victory, Vilips discovered he had missed both a call and text from Tiger Woods himself. "I got one from a random number that called me as well. Then there was a voicemail saying 'it's Tiger.' I couldn't process it in the moment," Vilips revealed in his winner's press conference.

Vega constellation in night sky

Vega constellation in night sky

The win marks an impressive trajectory for Vilips, who turned pro last summer and quickly earned his PGA Tour card through the Korn Ferry Tour. Woods had previously selected him as Sun Day Red's first brand ambassador in February 2025, citing his "relentless work ethic and pioneering spirit."

Reflecting on representing Woods' brand, Vilips said: "I think it shows me that there's a reason why they chose me to rep their brand and I'm just really happy to be able to do it as myself. You've got to look good to play good, so yeah, it's really cool."

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