Deadspin: Andrew Novak Claims Mexico Open as PGA Tour Fall Race Heats Up

Novak Seals Solo Victory

Novak closed with a 2-under 69 to finish five strokes clear of the field. He started the final round with six shots in hand after posting rounds of 61 and 62 on Friday and Saturday.

He made seven consecutive pars to open Sunday and remained even for the round through 11 holes. Birdies at the 12th and next two holes stretched his advantage; Doug Ghim’s bogey at No. 14 helped make the gap six shots again.

First Individual Tour Title

The tournament was played in Vallarta, Mexico, under the name VidantaWorld Mexico Open. Novak’s five-shot margin made his lead secure as the final round progressed.

Fall Standings Shift

Novak began the week 89th in the FedEx Cup Fall standings and rose to a projected 53rd after winning. Players who finish from 51st through 60th qualify for the first two signature events of 2027.

The top 100 in the standings at the end of the fall keep full-time status on tour. Steven Fisk and Norway’s Kristoffer Ventura tied for second at 20 under after each carded a 63.

Other Leaders Finish Strong

Griffin shot 67 and shared fourth place at 19 under with Canadian Mackenzie Hughes, who posted a 66. Ghim finished with a double bogey and fell into a five-way tie for sixth at 18 under.

Fisk and Ventura were five shots behind Novak. Their tie for second placed them ahead of the group that included Griffin and Hughes.