Scottie Scheffler Captivates, Ryan Gerard Triumphs
On Sunday, golf fans were captivated by Scottie Scheffler, whose performance shifted discussions from victory margins to comparisons with Tiger Woods. Amidst this, Ryan Gerard took charge at the Barracuda Championship, starting with a par, birdie, and eagle. His strong play was particularly impressive in the context of the tournament’s Stableford scoring system. After sinking a remarkable 30-foot eagle on the par-5 11th, the focus turned to Gerard and his own performance, reminiscent of Scheffler’s mindset during the Open Championship. Ultimately, he claimed his first PGA Tour victory, finishing three points ahead of 2021 champion Erik Van Rooyen.
A Contrasting Story
Gerard’s win stood in stark contrast to the turmoil surrounding Grant Horvat earlier that week. While waiting for my luggage at Phoenix Sky Harbor on Tuesday, I came across news about a YouTube star who rejected a PGA Tour spot due to a lack of filming opportunities. This led me to reflect on my own missteps in the golf world.
The Challenges Facing the ‘Cuda
The Reno-Tahoe Open, now known as the ‘Cuda, boasts a prestigious list of previous champions, including major winners like Collin Morikawa and Gary Woodland. While Gerard adds his name to this list, the tournament itself faces uncertainty. Reports suggest that title sponsor Barracuda Networks will not renew its contract, and the PGA Tour has replaced its slot with the Corales Puntacana Championship opposite the 2026 Open Championship. The potential exposure Grant Horvat could have provided might have been crucial for attracting a new sponsor, making Gerard’s inspiring win even more significant for the event’s future.
A Journey Through Monday Qualifying
Gerard’s path to victory included key moments in Monday qualifying. He successfully qualified for the Honda Classic in 2023 and showcased his talent with a T-4 finish. This momentum continued at subsequent events, leading to a special temporary membership at the Valero Texas Open and a commendable fifth-place finish at the ’Cuda.
Frustrations and Resilience
Despite finishing outside the top 125 at the year’s end, Gerard faced the challenges of conditional status with determination. He expressed his frustration on the Any Given Monday podcast, recognizing that his category limited his opportunities. Rather than complain, he focused on improving and eventually triumphed at the BMW Charity Pro-Am, winning by six strokes and securing his return to the PGA Tour.
Managing the Adrenaline of Competition
Whether Gerard drew from his BMW experience during the ’Cuda is uncertain, but he managed to maintain control over his nerves while leading in the final round, a feat that tests any golfer’s mental strength. After years of challenges, he emerged victorious, sealing his journey back to the PGA Tour.
The Legacy of the ‘Cuda
As someone who has fond memories of the ‘Cuda from my own experiences, I cherish the event and the community that surrounds it. My journey began with a Monday qualifier in 2021, culminating in a heartfelt connection with friends and the local area. Last week, Gerard participated in the Scottish Open and, despite a less-than-ideal finish, prioritized his upcoming spot at the ’Cuda, solidifying his commitment to the tournament. With his recent victory, he now ranks 28th in the FedEx Cup standings, gaining exemptions for the next two years on the PGA Tour. Here’s hoping that new talent discovers the magic of the ‘Cuda in 2026.
