Austin Cook began the final round at the RSM Classic leading by three shots. By the end of the day the lead was four as he secured his maiden Tour victory.
The American rookie was never seriously challenged on the final day at Sea Island where his straight driving and accurate iron play kept him clear of any trouble, as it had done all week on his way to a 21-under par total, one shot shy of Kevin Kisner's tournament scoring record.
His lone hiccup of the final round coming at the 2nd hole, failing to get up and down from a greenside bunker and recording only his second bogey of the week.
The 26-year-old Cook then birdied the 7th to turn in even par and remained calm as he made par after par through the early holes of the back nine. While playing partners Brian Gay and Chris Kirk, as well as eventual runner-up JJ Spaun, mixed bogeys in with birdies on Sunday to allow the University of Arkansas product a relatively stress free journey to his maiden win.
A birdie at the par-5 15th hole extended Cook’s lead before the fourth year professional finished the win in style making consecutive birdies at the final two holes to sign for a final round three-under 67 and four shot victory from Spaun. Who closed with a four-under 66.
Cameron Percy was the lone Australian to make the weekend at Sea Island. Finishing well back in a tie for 70th after a disappointing final round 77 that will leave a sour taste with the RSM Classic signalling the end of the calendar year for the PGA Tour.
Related Articles
'Very cool': Minjee inspires Min Woo at Rocket Classic
Playing From The Tips Ep.118: LIV Dallas, Rocket Classic, LPGA Teams, US Senior Open & more
