Padraig Harrington proved once again that class is permanent, as the Irishman secured his second US Senior Open title with a dramatic one-shot victory over American favourite Stewart Cink.
At Newport Country Club in Rhode Island, Harrington held his nerve in a final-round battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Finishing at 10-under-par, Harrington carded a steady final round 70, doing just enough to hold off the surging Cink, who thrilled the home crowd with a late birdie charge to close with a 68.
Harrington’s win adds to a growing legacy in the senior ranks, having claimed his first US Senior Open title in 2022. Now with two major senior victories under his belt, the 52-year-old has firmly established himself as one of the elite players on the Champions Tour.
“This win means a lot. It’s always tough to close it out when you know someone like Stewart is chasing you down,” Harrington said after the win. “But I stuck to my game plan and trusted my swing, even when things got tight.”
Indeed, it was Harrington’s calm under pressure that proved decisive. Despite a couple of nervy moments on the back nine, the three-time major champion leaned on his experience and short game to stay in control. His clutch par saves on 16 and 17 gave him the cushion he needed to walk up the 18th with confidence.
For Stewart Cink, the narrow loss was bittersweet. The 51-year-old, playing in his US Senior Open debut, thrilled local fans with moments of brilliance, but ultimately ran out of holes in his pursuit.
“It stings a little, but hats off to Padraig,” Cink said. “He played smart, steady golf all week and deserved it.”
Harrington’s win marks yet another highlight in a stellar post-50 career and reinforces the global flavour of senior golf. With names like Bernhard Langer, Steve Stricker, and now Harrington continuing to compete at a high level, the Champions Tour remains compelling — and competitive.
For now, Harrington can enjoy a well-earned celebration and a spot in history as a two-time US Senior Open champion.
My Goat Sports 