Min Woo Lee has officially arrived on the PGA Tour stage, clinching his first title at the Texas Children’s Houston Open on March 30, 2025. The 26-year-old Australian golfer entered the final round with a commanding four-shot lead, but it was anything but smooth sailing as he fought off fierce competition from world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and Gary Woodland.
Lee’s journey to victory was not without its challenges. After a strong start, he found himself in a precarious position on the par-5 16th hole, where a wayward tee shot found the water. This costly mistake led to a bogey, cutting his lead to just one stroke. Meanwhile, both Scheffler and Woodland were making their own moves, with Woodland finishing the day with a course-record-tying 62 and Scheffler firing a 63.
Despite the pressure, Lee managed to keep his composure. He finished the tournament at an impressive 20-under-par 260, securing his victory by a single stroke over Woodland and Scheffler. Lee’s performance throughout the tournament was notable, as he shot a three-under 67 on the final day, showcasing his resilience under pressure.
“I just tried to stay in the moment,” Lee said after the victory. “I knew I had to stay focused and not let the mistakes get to me.” His ability to bounce back was crucial, especially after the bogey on 16. Lee parred the final two holes, ensuring that he would not relinquish his hard-earned lead.
In addition to the personal triumph, this victory marks a significant milestone for the Lee family. Min Woo is the younger brother of LPGA major champion Minjee Lee, making them the first brother-sister duo to win titles on their respective tours. This added a special layer to Min Woo’s victory, as he reflected on the support from his sister and family.
While Lee celebrated his maiden victory, the tournament was also a moment of redemption for Woodland. After undergoing surgery for a brain tumor in 2023, he demonstrated remarkable resilience by achieving his best finish on the PGA Tour in six years. Woodland’s performance, which included an eagle on the 16th hole, highlighted his determination and skill as he continues his comeback.
As the final round unfolded, it was clear that the competition was fierce. Scheffler, who was looking to defend his title, made a strong push on the back nine, carding four consecutive birdies starting from hole 13. However, despite his impressive finish, he could not quite catch Lee, who had built enough of a buffer to secure the win.
“It’s always tough to chase someone down, especially when they’re playing well,” Scheffler admitted. “But I’m happy with how I played this week and looking forward to the Masters.”
The Houston Open not only served as a platform for Lee’s first victory but also as a precursor to the upcoming Masters Tournament, which begins on April 10. With this win, Lee earned $1.71 million and 500 FedEx Cup points, propelling him to 16th place in both categories.
Fans at Memorial Park Golf Course were treated to an exciting finish, with chants of “let him cook” echoing through the crowd as Lee sank his final putt, sealing the victory. The atmosphere was electric, reflecting the excitement surrounding Lee’s breakthrough win.
Looking ahead, Lee’s victory sets the stage for a promising season. As he prepares for the Masters, the young Australian will aim to build on this momentum and continue to challenge the best in the game. His victory at the Houston Open is a testament to his skill, determination, and the bright future that lies ahead.
In conclusion, Min Woo Lee’s first PGA Tour victory at the Texas Children’s Houston Open not only marks a personal achievement but also highlights the competitive nature of golf today. With players like Scheffler and Woodland pushing the limits, the sport continues to captivate fans around the world. As Lee steps onto the course for the Masters, all eyes will be on him to see if he can carry this winning momentum into one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments.
