Sahith Theegala takes 1st PGA win in home state

MANILA, Philippines – Indian-American Sahith Theegala captured his first PGA title last Monday, September 18, in the 2023 Fortinet Championship in Napa, California.

The 25-year old California native finished at 21-under 267 at the Silverado Resort’s North Course.

Theegala shot a 4-under 68, including three birdies in his first five holes, to wrestle control of the competition. Seong-hyeon Kim finished second at 19-under.

Two-time defending champion Max Homa finished 13-under and T-7.

“It's crazy … Just can't believe it happened,” said Theegala post-win. “I guess it’s just been a lot of work that was put in and a lot of people that were behind this win. Golf is really hard and you never know when you're going to find a little hot streak or when you're going to go on a cold streak. I'm taking it all in as the game has been feeling good.”

And good is how he felt playing in front of some 30 family members and friends.

“To be able to share this moment with my family and friends, it's the best. I don't want to say this is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, but it really is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. You only win once and you never even know if you're going to win, right? It is special to have them here and it’s something I'll never forget. Even through the highs and the lows, they were cheering me on and supporting me, and they've been that way since I started my professional career. I just want them to know I have their back too.”

Theegala, one of the golf’s brightest young stars, paid tribute to his parents Muralidhar and Karuna, who emigrated from India to the US during the 1980s, for their sacrifices and support and now hopes his triumph will inspire other young athletes in India to dream of sporting success.

“My dad's the