Overcoming a Car Accident 8 Years Ago, Bud Cauley Claims First PGA Tour Victory at Canadian Open

Bud Cauley (USA) has secured his first career PGA Tour victory, overcoming a car accident eight years ago that nearly ended his professional career.
On the 15th (KST), Cauley carded seven birdies and two bogeys to finish with a 5-under 65 in the final round of the RBC Canadian Open (total purse of $9.8 million), held at the TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley (par 70) in Caledon, Ontario, Canada.
With a total score of 17-under 263, Cauley defeated Matt Fitzpatrick (England, 15-under 265), who has already secured three wins on the PGA Tour this season, by two strokes. He took home the winner's prize of $1.764 million (approximately 2.68 billion KRW).
At 36 years old, Cauley earned his first win in his 239th PGA Tour start and climbed to 28th in the FedEx Cup rankings.
In June 2018, while staying in Dublin, Ohio, to compete in the Memorial Tournament, the vehicle Cauley was riding in was involved in a collision. He suffered severe injuries, including five broken ribs, a broken left leg, and lung damage.
After undergoing multiple surgeries, he made a miraculous return to the PGA Tour in October of that year, but complications that arose in September 2020 kept him sidelined from competition for nearly four years.
Cauley, who reduced his score by two strokes on the front nine to join the title race, surged into the sole lead with three consecutive birdies starting from the 11th hole. A birdie on the 15th hole (par 4) allowed him to play with more comfort.
"I want to thank everyone who helped me during such a difficult time," Cauley said. "With today's win, I am able to show my appreciation to my wife."
Kim Joo-hyung finished tied for 15th with a total of 10-under 270, carding four birdies and no bogeys in the final round.
Brooks Koepka (USA), a five-time major champion, withdrew before the start of the fourth round due to discomfort in his finger.
(Photo: Getty Images)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.