In a keen display of camaraderie and skill, European Ryder Cup stalwarts Darren Clarke and Thomas Bjorn captured the PGA Tour Champions team event title at the American Family Insurance Championship on Sunday. The duo delivered a sharp 7-under 64 during the final round of better-ball play, securing a commanding four-stroke victory over four competitive teams.
Hosted at TPC Wisconsin by Steve Stricker, this year's tournament adopted a team format, marking a unique feature within the PGA Tour Champions circuit. Clarke and Bjorn dominated the event with seasoned proficiency, culminating at an impressive 32-under 181 over three days. Their performance included a dazzling better-ball 59 on the opening day and an exceptional 58 in the scramble round on Saturday.
Clarke, the Northern Irishman at 56, clinched his fifth win on the 50-and-over tour, adding another feather to his cap. For the 54-year-old Dane, Bjorn, the victory marked his maiden title on the Champions circuit.
Steve Stricker and his brother-in-law Mario Tiziani finished strong, closing with a 65 to tie for second with teams Alex Cejka-Soren Kjeldsen, Doug Barron-Dicky Pride, and Steve Flesch-Paul Goydos, all at 28 under.
Another stroke behind were Bernhard Langer and Steven Alker, wrapping up with a solid 63. Meanwhile, last year’s individual winner Ernie Els teamed up with Tim Herron for a 66, settling at 26 under.
The event's switch to a team format infused a fresh competitive spirit, highlighting strategy, synchronization, and the enduring appeal of teamwork in professional golf.
