Mardy Fish Claims Third American Century Championship With Six-Point Victory
Former ATP player Mardy Fish captured his third American Century Championship on Sunday, finishing with 72 points under the tournament's modified Stableford scoring system to win the celebrity golf event at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course in Stateline, Nevada.
The former world No. 7 defeated defending champion Joe Pavelski by six points, adding another title to a post-tennis career that has established him as one of the tournament's most consistent competitors.
Why the Victory Matters
Fish became one of the American Century Championship's most accomplished players by securing his third title. The win further strengthens his record at one of the country's premier celebrity golf tournaments, which annually features athletes from professional sports competing under a modified Stableford format.
Fish Pulls Away in the Final Round
Fish entered the final round among the tournament leaders before separating himself from the field during the closing holes.
After securing the championship, he reflected on the role golf has taken in his life.
"I think I played the right sport, but I am obsessed with this game. This is the best week of the year."
The victory adds another significant achievement to Fish's career since retiring from professional tennis.
Pavelski Falls Short in Title Defense
Joe Pavelski remained within striking distance entering the final stretch but was unable to force a playoff.
A bogey on the 17th hole left the former NHL star needing an eagle on the final hole to catch Fish. His aggressive approach found the water, ending his bid to defend the championship.
Pavelski finished second with 66 points.
Notable Finishers
Steph Curry finished third with 59 points, continuing his strong performances at the tournament.
LPGA Hall of Famer Annika Sörenstam placed fourth with 58 points, while Baseball Hall of Famer John Smoltz rounded out the top five with 55 points.
Tony Romo, Derek Lowe, Taylor Twellman, Matt Boldy and Dwight Freeney also finished inside the top 10.
By the Numbers
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Champion: Mardy Fish
-
Winning score: 72 points
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Runner-up: Joe Pavelski (66 points)
-
Margin of victory: 6 points
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Third place: Steph Curry (59 points)
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Career American Century Championship titles: 3
Final Leaderboard
|
Position |
Player |
Points |
|
1 |
Mardy Fish |
72 |
|
2 |
Joe Pavelski |
66 |
|
3 |
Steph Curry |
59 |
|
4 |
Annika Sörenstam |
58 |
|
5 |
John Smoltz |
55 |
|
6 |
Tony Romo |
52 |
|
7 |
Derek Lowe |
50 |
|
8 |
Taylor Twellman |
47 |
|
9 |
Matt Boldy |
43 |
|
10 |
Dwight Freeney |
42 |
Career Background
Before transitioning to competitive celebrity golf, Fish built a successful professional tennis career.
He reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 7, won six ATP singles titles and eight doubles titles, and represented the United States in Davis Cup competition.
His continued success at the American Century Championship highlights a seamless transition from professional tennis to competitive golf, where he has become one of the event's most accomplished champions.
