AVONDALE, La. — In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 Zurich Classic of New Orleans, Andrew Novak and Ben Griffin emerged victorious, each claiming their first PGA Tour titles at TPC Louisiana. The duo finished with a remarkable score of 28 under par, edging out Danish twins Nicolai and Rasmus Højgaard by a single stroke on Sunday, April 27, 2025.
Novak and Griffin entered the final round with a three-shot lead, but the day began ominously as they bogeyed the first hole. However, they quickly regained their composure, with Novak sinking a birdie putt to reestablish their advantage. The pressure intensified as the Højgaards made a strong charge, but it was Griffin's clutch birdie from nearly 35 feet on the par-3 17th that proved decisive.
For Novak, this victory marked a significant milestone in his career, coming in his 100th start on the PGA Tour. He became the first player to win the week after losing in a playoff since Patrick Cantlay achieved the feat in 2022. "You never really know when you’re going to get your first one," Novak said. "But we put ourselves in position again. Luckily, I had Ben there for me today, and he carried down the stretch. So exciting to get our first win together."
Griffin's journey to this moment has been equally compelling. After stepping away from competitive golf nearly four years ago, he transitioned into a mortgage loan officer. His return to the sport began with the Korn Ferry Tour in 2022, where he earned his Tour card for the 2023 season. Griffin expressed his joy, stating, "It seems like a movie, really. It seems like a movie script, like it’s not real. But it’s just perfect how it all came together."
The final round was fraught with tension as the weather delayed play for over 90 minutes, but both players steadied their nerves. Despite a shaky start with bogeys on the first and ninth holes, they managed to keep their composure, making crucial birdies that kept them in contention. Their performance on the back nine was especially strong, culminating in a series of pars that maintained their lead.
While Novak and Griffin celebrated their victory, the Højgaards finished in solo second place, showcasing their potential on the PGA Tour. The twins, who entered the tournament outside the top 100 in the FedEx Cup standings, could use this experience as a launching pad for future success. They finished the tournament at 27 under par, just one stroke shy of the winners.
Jake Knapp and Frankie Capan III, who were also in contention, finished in third place at 26 under par. Their performance included a solid final round, but they ultimately fell short of the lead. Defending champions Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry struggled throughout the day, finishing tied for 12th at 22 under par.
Novak's recent history made this win even sweeter. Just a week prior, he narrowly missed out on his first victory at the RBC Heritage, losing in a playoff to Justin Thomas. This time, he made sure to seize the opportunity, showing resilience and determination. "I think for both Andrew and I, it felt like it was only a matter of time out here," Griffin remarked. "We both put ourselves in the mix a bunch, especially this season, but even going back to last season."
The Zurich Classic, known for its unique team format, does not offer world ranking points, but both players earned two-year exemptions and 500 FedEx Cup points with their victory, along with a substantial payday of $1,329,400 each. Their success at this event not only solidifies their status on the tour but also provides a boost to their careers as they prepare for upcoming tournaments.
As Novak and Griffin celebrate their triumph, they also look ahead to the remaining Signature Events this season and the PGA Championship, with their sights set on further successes. The camaraderie they share, having known each other since their teenage years in North Carolina, has undoubtedly played a role in their journey to this moment.
With their first wins now behind them, both golfers are eager to continue their ascent in the sport. As Novak put it, "It’s just a full-circle moment. Andrew said that earlier, of us sitting up here together getting our first win. I feel like we’ve had similar tracks to where we are today." This victory at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans will be a cherished memory for both players as they move forward in their careers.
