Novak and Griffin Shock the Field, Win Zurich Classic in Thrilling Team Effort

NEW ORLEANS — In a thrilling finish at TPC Louisiana, Andrew Novak and Ben Griffin teamed up to win the 2025 Zurich Classic, earning their first-ever PGA Tour titles dramatically.

The rookie duo, who had never hoisted a PGA Tour trophy before Sunday, closed out the tournament with a final-round 64 in the better-ball format. Their stellar teamwork and clutch putting helped them finish at 27-under-par, edging out the field in the only team event on the PGA Tour schedule.

Novak and Griffin, both relatively new faces on Tour, entered the final day trailing by one stroke but caught fire early. They combined for eight birdies and avoided any major mistakes, maintaining pressure on their nearest challengers. As other top teams faltered down the stretch, Novak and Griffin kept their composure to secure the emotional victory.

“This is what we dreamed about,” said Griffin during the post-tournament interview, holding back tears. “To do it together, in this setting, makes it even more special.”

Novak echoed the sentiment, praising their chemistry on and off the course. “We’ve been pushing each other all year. To see it pay off like this, it’s just unbelievable.”

The Zurich Classic’s unique format, featuring alternate shot and best-ball rounds, emphasizes true partnership — and Novak and Griffin’s synergy was clear from start to finish. Their win not only brings them each a two-year PGA Tour exemption but also vaults them into upcoming major championship conversations.

Fan favourites Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry finished tied for third after a disappointing final round, while defending champions Nick Hardy and Davis Riley faded to a tie for 15th.

As Novak and Griffin celebrate their breakthrough moment, golf fans can expect to hear a lot more from this dynamic team in the months ahead.