Baycurrent Classic: Schauffele Breaks Through in Yokohama
Xander Schauffele secured his first title since last year’s Open Championship with a one-shot victory at the Baycurrent Classic in Japan. The American carded a sparkling final round of 64, featuring eight birdies, to finish at 19-under, narrowly edging out countryman Max Greyserman.
Final Round Drama at Yokohama Country Club
Schauffele’s 64, highlighted by eight birdies, propelled him to a 19-under total and a one-stroke cushion over Greyserman, who finished on 18-under. Fellow American Max Thorbjornsen lurked in the mix, ending at 16-under to claim a share of third place with multiple close calls throughout the week. The final day drama underscored the Baycurrent Classic’s status as a pivotal bounce-back event for players smoothing out post-season rhythm.
Context: A Tumultuous Year Turned Positive
This victory marks a welcome return to form for Schauffele, who has been navigating a challenging year marked by a rib injury and a tough stretch following the United States’ Ryder Cup loss to Europe at Bethpage Black. The 31-year-old used the win to illustrate resilience and to reaffirm that his peak performance level remains intact. “It feels good, it’s nice to know I’ve still got it,” Schauffele said after sealing the win. He added that despite a rough year, his team helped him push through, and he sees this as a learning experience that could sharpen his game for the months ahead.
Significance of the Victory
Winning in Japan carried an emotional note for Schauffele, as the win holds personal resonance: his mother grew up in Japan, and his grandparents remain in the country. The Baycurrent Classic provided a platform for Schauffele to reconnect with that part of his heritage while returning to form after his major triumphs in 2022 and 2024. This title also serves as a confidence boost as he gears up for the next season’s schedule.
Other Notables and Round Highlights
Michael Thorbjornsen delivered a bold effort with an early eagle at the fourth hole that briefly put him in contention before finishing three back at 16-under. Collin Morikawa, Schauffele’s Ryder Cup teammate, finished tied for 14th at 10-under, showing signs of a continued high level of play. Matt McCarty delivered the round of the day, amassing 12 birdies on his way to an 11-under 60. His back-nine burst, including an uninterrupted stretch of eight consecutive birdies, kept the leaderboard lively but wasn’t enough to catch the leaders as the round concluded with a single bogey on the 18th.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Schauffele resets his momentum heading into the next swing of the PGA Tour schedule. The Baycurrent Classic result could also influence his regional form and readiness for major championships and team events in the calendar year ahead, as he and his camp map out a plan to stay healthy, sharpen approach play, and capitalize on his proven ability to close out tight finishes.
