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The 2024 BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club delivered one of the most thrilling finishes in recent memory, with America’s Billy Horschel securing his second title in this prestigious event. Set on the iconic West Course in Surrey, England, the tournament offered drama, world-class golf, and a significant prize purse that captured the attention of golf fans worldwide.
The total prize fund for the 2024 BMW PGA Championship was a substantial $9 million, with the winner, Billy Horschel, taking home $1.53 million. The prize distribution for the top finishers was as follows:
Prize money and final leaderboard
The final leaderboard underscored the tight competition and skill level on display at Wentworth:
Position Player Score Earnings (USD)
1 Billy Horschel* -20 $1,530,000
T2 Thriston Lawrence -20 $778,500
T2 Rory McIlroy -20 $778,500
T4 Aaron Rai -17 $382,200
T4 Matthew Baldwin -17 $382,200
T4 Matteo Manassero -17 $382,200
T7 Niklas Norgaard -16 $232,200
T7 Ugo Coussaud -16 $232,200
T7 Antoine Rozner -16 $232,200
T10 Tom McKibbin -13 $172,800
T10 Marcus Armitage -13 $172,800
The play-off drama
The 2024 edition culminated in a thrilling three-way play-off between Billy Horschel, Rory McIlroy, and Thriston Lawrence, all finishing their final rounds tied at 20 under par. After a bogey from Lawrence on the first play-off hole, the contest was left between Horschel and McIlroy, with Horschel sealing the victory in dramatic fashion by sinking an eagle on the first extra hole.
“I’m thrilled and excited for the way I played,” said Horschel, reflecting on his clutch performance. “At the same time, I’m a little disappointed—Rory is a great friend of mine and he’s a generational talent. I know how close he’s been this year, so I can feel for him.”
Horschel’s victory marked his second BMW PGA Championship title, following his triumph at Wentworth in 2021. His performance in 2024 builds on an already strong season, having also won the Corales Puntacana Championship in April.
Near miss for Rory McIlroy
For Rory McIlroy, the BMW PGA Championship was another near miss in a season filled with close calls. Starting the final round three shots behind Matteo Manassero, McIlroy fought back valiantly, posting a strong score to force his way into the play-off. However, the elusive win slipped away once more as Horschel outperformed him in the extra hole.
This result adds to McIlroy’s recent string of narrow defeats, including his second-place finish at the Irish Open and a late falter during the US Open earlier in the year. Despite the frustration of another close call, McIlroy’s form remains a testament to his enduring place among the game’s elite.
Strong performances from other contenders
Italy’s Matteo Manassero, who led for much of the tournament, finished in a tie for fourth place alongside English duo Matt Baldwin and Aaron Rai at 17 under. Manassero’s resurgence was one of the stories of the week, showing signs of a return to the form that once made him one of golf’s rising stars.
Thriston Lawrence of South Africa also had a standout performance, posting a remarkable seven-under-par 65 in the final round, including seven birdies. However, his inability to birdie either of the final two par fives left the door open for McIlroy and Horschel to match his score and ultimately surpass him in the play-off.
A course fit for champions
The West Course at Wentworth Club remains one of the most demanding venues on the DP World Tour, and 2024 was no different. The par-5 18th, with its water hazard, provided plenty of late drama, and the tight fairways and fast greens tested even the best players in the world.
Final thoughts
Billy Horschel’s 2024 BMW PGA Championship victory solidifies his place as one of the most consistent performers in recent years. His clutch play, particularly in high-pressure situations, is a hallmark of a champion. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy’s runner-up finish adds another chapter to his ongoing battle to return to the winner’s circle in major tournaments.
The 2024 BMW PGA Championship will be remembered for its dramatic play-off and the exceptional skill of the players involved. As the DP World Tour continues, fans and players alike are already looking forward to what next year’s edition at Wentworth will bring.
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