Who won the 2019 PGA Championship?

By: Jackson Wald

August 9, 2020

Koepka hoisting the Wanamaker Trophy in 2018.

Getty Images

As the 2020 PGA Championship at TPC Heritage draws to an end — a distinctly unique version of the tournament, as, due to COVID-19, the championship was held without fans — it’s worth noting why this year’s outcome could be so special. That’s because the winner of the 2019 PGA Championship, as well as the 2018 edition, was Brooks Koepka. And Koepka, of course, is starting the final day of this year’s PGA just two shots behind leader Dustin Johnson as he eyes his third straight title.

brooks koepka and dustin johnson — Brooks Koepka jabs Dustin Johnson’s major total, bullish about PGA three-peat
By: Zephyr Melton

Koepa was in the midst of a seemingly untouchable run last year; the now seven-time PGA Tour winner’s title was his third in his past five starts. However, it was not an easy road to victory in that final round last year. Koepka had to overcome a disastrous stretch at Bethpage Black, and a late push from Johnson, to end up on top.

Koepka was not alone in his struggles on Sunday; strong winds gave players issues all day. Only 11 players shot under par in the final round, while no player shot below 68.

Koepa finished the tournament eight under, two strokes ahead of Johnson, despite entering the final round with a seven-shot lead. He had looked stellar up to that point — shooting a course-record 63 the day before. However, the back nine on Sunday was not so friendly; he bogeyed four straight holes from 11 to 14.

Will this Sunday be another rollercoaster ride for the champ? We’re about to find out.