2020 American Express Recap

on January 20, 2020

La Quinta, California – As the sun set on the desert for the first PGA Tour event in the continental US in 2020, it was Andrew Landry who was left standing. Its clear that Landry has a knack for playing in the desert. In the 15 rounds that he’s played in this event, he hasn’t had an over-par round in any of them. It didn’t come without adversity, however.

Andrew Landry had a good start to the week after carding a 66, 64, and 65 in his first three rounds. It was especially comforting since he had missed the cut in 7 of his last 8 starts. The doubt started to creep in on Sunday, however, as Landry squandered a six-shot lead while Abraham Ancer was on a tear a few groups ahead. After making 3 bogeys in a row on the back 9, Landry found himself in a tie for first place. Landry did not want to go to a playoff either since he lost to Jon Rahm in a playoff in 2018 at this very same event.

The turning point came on the 17th hole as Landry stuffed his tee shot to about 7 feet and converted the putt for a critical birdie. With the pressure on the 72nd hole, Landry hit his approach close enough to enjoy his walk-up to the 18th and savor the victory. He even drained the putt for a birdie and comfortable win over Ancer.

Rickie Fowler was a favorite entering the weekend but fell off after not breaking 70 on Saturday or Sunday. Tony Finau also showed some flashes of stardom after posting a 62 on Friday. He followed that round up with a 71 and wasn’t able to recover.

Next week, the PGA Tour heads over to San Diego for the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines.