Jake Knapp has a story straight out of Hollywood.
The PGA Tour rookie held on to win the Mexico Open on Sunday and its $1.5m prize, losing a four-shot lead in a seven-hole span but relying on a sharp short game to capture the tournament.
Making Knapp’s story even more dramatic, he used to be a bouncer at a night club.
The 29-year-old from California took the job to preserve his dream of playing on the PGA Tour and had to save money from his bouncer gig to keep dreaming of life as a professional golfer.
With the gutsy win, Knapp is now ensured of a trip to the prestigious Masters tournament in April to take on the best golf names in the world including Jon Rahm, Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy.
“I didn’t have my best stuff today, that’s for sure,” Knapp said. “I knew I was going to be a nervous wreck. I knew it was going to be tough.”
While trying to qualify for the PGA Tour, Knapp ran out of money and had to get creative.
He spent nine months working as a bouncer, all while keeping an eye on a better life.
The initials LTD — Living the Dream — capture Knapp’s pursuit of golf greatness.
He also honors his grandfather, who died in 2023, with initials GSFB (Gordon Sydney Frederick Bowles) tattooed on his left arm.
Knapp was overcome with emotion when asked about his grandfather.
“Papa, thank you,” said Knapp said, who pointed to the sky and was then celebrated with pouring of water bottles.
Knapp turned pro in 2016 but now has his first career PGA win.
He entered the week ranked No. 101 in the world.
Knapp finished at 19-under on Sunday, winning the Mexico Open by two strokes.
The Masters is set for April 11-14 in Augusta, Georgia.
Knapp will be there in person, living the dream and honoring his grandfather while playing on the PGA Tour’s biggest stage.
News Summary:
- I was a nightclub bouncer saving money for PGA Tour but now I will fight Rory McIlroy at Masters after winning $1.5m
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