In a thrilling climax to the 2025 Rocket Classic at Detroit Golf Club, 20-year-old Aldrich Potgieter etched his name in PGA Tour history by capturing his maiden title in a dramatic five-hole playoff. The South African, who led the tournament after 54 holes at 19-under-par, ultimately triumphed over Max Greyserman with a clutch 18-foot birdie putt on the fifth extra hole, the par-3 15th. This victory not only marked Potgieter’s first PGA Tour win but also made him the youngest South African to claim such an honor.
The Rocket Classic, boasting a record-breaking $9.6 million purse, showcased an intense final round on June 29, 2025, where Potgieter, Greyserman, and Chris Kirk all finished regulation play tied at 22-under-par, forcing the rare playoff — only the third in the tournament’s history. Kirk, a six-time PGA Tour winner, was eliminated on the second playoff hole after a bogey on the par-3 15th, leaving Potgieter and Greyserman to battle it out for three more holes.
Both Potgieter and Greyserman parred the third playoff hole and then electrified fans with birdies on the fourth playoff hole, the par-5 14th. However, Greyserman narrowly missed a birdie attempt at the final playoff hole, allowing Potgieter’s precise putt to drop and clinch the title. The South African’s composed performance under pressure was a testament to his burgeoning talent and mental fortitude.
Potgieter’s journey to this win has been marked by resilience. Earlier in 2025, he experienced heartbreak in Mexico, losing a playoff at the Mexico Open at VidantaWorld. But this time, the result was different. After the victory, Potgieter reflected, “Today was a grind. It’s not a fun thing to start with a lead, but it’s always nice to win in a playoff. Going into the playoff, they picked some good holes that suited my game, but I’m just happy to get through that playoff. I’d like to thank everyone in South Africa, for staying up so late, as well as my friends and family. You guys have been awesome!”
The final round itself was a rollercoaster, with multiple lead changes and a tightly packed leaderboard. Potgieter started the day as the overnight leader at 19-under, but faced stiff competition from a group of 11 golfers within four strokes, including notable names like Chris Kirk, Max Greyserman, Michael Thorbjornsen, and Jake Knapp. Potgieter’s final round score was a steady 69, while Kirk and Greyserman both carded 67, underscoring the high level of play throughout the day.
Michael Thorbjornsen and Jake Knapp finished just one stroke behind the playoff trio at 21-under-par, while Nico Echavarria and Jackson Suber rounded out the top contenders at 20-under. The Rocket Classic’s fast greens and the passionate Detroit crowd created a charged atmosphere that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The playoff format at the Rocket Classic is unique and challenging. After the initial extra hole on the par-4 18th, the players cycle through holes 15, 16, and 14 repeatedly until a winner emerges. This demanding sequence tested the players’ versatility and endurance, with Potgieter’s powerful drives and precise iron shots proving decisive.
Potgieter’s victory also highlights the increasing depth of young talent on the PGA Tour. As the second youngest Korn Ferry Tour graduate in 2024, just behind the legendary Jason Day, Potgieter’s ascent signals a bright future. His ability to handle the pressure of a multi-hole playoff at such a young age speaks volumes about his potential in the game.
Financially, the Rocket Classic’s purse saw a significant boost in 2025, rising from $7.5 million in 2024 to a staggering $9.6 million. Potgieter’s winner’s share of $1,728,000 represented a 20% increase from the previous year, reflecting the tournament’s growing prestige and the sport’s expanding commercial appeal. Runners-up Chris Kirk and Max Greyserman each earned $854,400, while other top finishers took home substantial payouts, underscoring the lucrative nature of the event.
Detroit Golf Club, known for its challenging layout and rich history, was the perfect stage for this epic showdown. The club also holds a special place in PGA Tour lore as the site of the longest playoff in Tour history — the 11-hole tie at the 1949 Motor City Open. The 2025 Rocket Classic’s five-hole playoff added another memorable chapter to this legacy.
Beyond the PGA Tour, the day also featured a notable victory in the PGA Tour Champions, where Padraig Harrington secured his second US Senior Open title at Broadmoor Golf Club, finishing at 11-under-par with a closing 67. Harrington’s triumph by one stroke over Stewart Cink added to the day’s excitement across professional golf.
As the dust settles on the 2025 Rocket Classic, Aldrich Potgieter’s breakthrough victory serves as a beacon for young golfers worldwide. His poise, power, and perseverance through a grueling playoff highlight the qualities that define champions. With this win, Potgieter not only claims a significant payday but also cements his status as one of the most promising talents on the PGA Tour.
Looking ahead, the Rocket Classic’s continued growth in prize money and competitive depth promises more electrifying finishes in the years to come. For now, the spotlight shines brightly on Potgieter, the new face of South African golf on the PGA Tour, who has taken a giant leap forward on his journey to stardom.
