In a dramatic conclusion to the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship 2025, England’s Laurie Canter showcased his skill and resilience, clinching victory in a dramatic play-off at the Royal Golf Club in Bahrain.
The championship, which marked its second year on the DP World Tour’s calendar, saw Canter birdie the first extra hole after Spaniard Pablo Larrazabal, and seeking a 10th Tour win, disappointingly three-putted for bogey the final green in regulation to open the door for Canter and his fellow Englishman Daniel Young.
The tournament began with high expectations, as it featured a robust field including defending champion Dylan Frittelli, Major winners in the American duo of Jimmy Walker, Patrick Reed and Padraig Harrington.
CANTER WINS BUT HEART-ACHE FOR PABLO ….
Well done to @LaurieCanter @galvingreen @themarbleworks @IWC @exclusive_hotel second #DPTW
Though double despair for @plarrazabal at the final green #BahrainGolfChamps
Read: https://t.co/bBM8iA5Goj
✅ @TOURMISS pic.twitter.com/hyaSGPZAh7
— Fatiha (@TOURMISS) February 2, 2025
Larrazabal, 41, was just one off the lead at the start of the final day and with birdies at nine, 10 and 13 taking him to a two shot lead standing on the 18th tee before sending a 3-wood tee shot way right that only just managed to stay inside the hazard line marking water all the way down the right fairway.
Canter found the fairway while Young was in a bunker. Larrazabal got a good break with his second, and it showed as he was smiling when he second shot found the green back right and only just avoiding landing further into rough.
However, Larrazabal’s good fortune with his second shot was ruined when he three-putter for bogey to open the door for Canter and Young to ensure a three-way play-off.
Canter, who had been enjoying a streak of good form following his third place at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, approached the tournament with confidence. His performance throughout the event was marked by consistent play, highlighted by his remarkable composure under pressure.
The recent new father’s journey to the top was not without its challenges; after navigating through the ups and downs of the leaderboard, he found himself in contention going into the final round and walked away with victory.
“Coming into this week, I knew I had the game, but golf is never that straightforward to come through in the playoff, especially against strong competitors, it’s a testament to the hard work,”, said the now two-time Tour winning Canter.
His win was not only a personal achievement but also a significant boost in the Race to Dubai rankings, underlining his rising status in the golfing world.
Victory was particularly poignant for Canter, who has navigated a unique path in professional golf, having played in both the LIV Golf League and on the DP World Tour. His ability to compete and succeed on both platforms speaks to his versatility and skill, providing a narrative of adaptability and success in the ever-evolving landscape of professional golf.
For Canter, this championship was not just another title; it was a statement of his capability to perform on the biggest stages and an exciting preview of what could be a stellar year ahead for him that could very well lead to a trip to New York come September.