Stewart Cink has achieved a significant milestone, capturing his second consecutive PGA Tour Champions major title. His victory at the Regions Tradition in Birmingham, Alabama, by a margin of three shots, marks a remarkable period of success for the golfer, who had never previously won a major on the tour.
Cink's impressive performance on the final day saw him post a 3-under-par 69, even in challenging, breezy conditions. This consistent play allowed him to distance himself from his closest challenger, Australia's Scott Hend. Cink, a native of Florence, Alabama, enjoyed considerable local support at Greystone Golf and Country Club, where he delivered five birdies against two bogeys. This win follows closely on the heels of his Senior PGA Championship triumph just two weeks prior in Bradenton, Florida, cementing his status as a dominant force in the sport.
Reflecting on his win, Cink acknowledged the difficulty of the day but emphasized his resilience and trust in his strategy. He noted that while his play wasn't flawless, he managed to execute good golf under pressure. The golfer expressed his deep connection to the venue, stating that it was where he honed his skills. He also cherished the support from familiar faces in the crowd, including childhood friends and family, making the victory even more special.
Cink attributes his recent surge in form, which includes four victories in 2026 and no finish lower than sixth this year, to his ability to remain focused on the present moment. He expressed satisfaction at returning to the winner's circle and hopes for more successes in the future. His consistent performance has been a hallmark of his season, demonstrating a refined approach to the game.
While Cink maintained his lead, Scott Hend mounted a strong challenge, carding an impressive 7-under 65. Despite his excellent round, which featured six birdies, one bogey, and an eagle, Hend started too far behind to overcome Cink's lead. Other notable finishers included Scotland's Colin Montgomerie in third place at 13 under, and Denmark's Soren Kjeldsen, who finished fourth. The top five was rounded out by South Korea's Charlie Wi, Germany's Alex Cejka, and Doug Barron, all tied for fifth.
In summary, Stewart Cink's recent victory at the Regions Tradition underscores his exceptional form and strategic prowess. His ability to perform under pressure, combined with strong local support, propelled him to a second major title in quick succession. This triumph not only highlights his individual skill but also marks a significant period of achievement in his career, driven by a focused and resilient mindset.
