(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

David Puig followed in the footsteps of European golf legend Seve Ballesteros, becoming only the second Spaniard to win the AUS$2.5 million BMW Australian PGA Championship.

The 23-year-old fired a flawless final-round 66 to finish 18 under par and claim his first DP World Tour title on just his 15th start.

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Puig, who plays on LIV Golf, began the day in a three-way tie for the lead but quickly surged ahead with a hat-trick of birdies on the second, third, and fourth holes. He extended his advantage with additional shots on the eighth and 13th, then steadied his game to par his way home and secure the victory, becoming the first winner of the 2026 DP World Tour season.

This triumph also sees Puig top the 2026 Race to Dubai with 500 points, marking the first of 42 tournaments on the 2026 schedule and the first of five events on the 'Opening Swing.'

China's Wenyi Ding finished alone in second at 16 under after a 66, while Marc Leishman (Aus) and Nick Voke (NZ) tied for third at 269. Ding, the 2024 Asia-Pacific Amateur Champion, turned professional via the DP World Tour Amateur pathway instead of accepting invites to The Masters and The Open.

Puig showcased nerves of steel in the final round, sinking a long-range birdie on the eighth and saving par from five feet on the 11th. A sensational approach on the 13th and a clutch up-and-down on the 14th stretched his lead, while a late charge from Ding narrowed the margin. Puig remained composed with a par on the 16th and closed out with consecutive pars to seal a memorable victory.

Reflecting on his win, Puig said:“It feels unbelievable, especially winning here in Australia. They have awesome golf, so I'm really excited and happy. I was definitely nervous, but I think I kind of kept my composure really well. Obviously, that start helped a lot.

"I want to thank my fiancée. She's been with me throughout the last seven years. She's incredible. Also, my parents and her family. I think we're a really close group. We get along really well. It's just amazing the support I get.”

On joining Seve Ballesteros in the tournament's history, Puig added:
“Obviously, my name being with Seve's name as the only two Spaniards to have won this event makes it even more special. Really happy.”

Final Results (7085 Yards, Par 71):

• D. Puig (Spain) 68, 67, 65, 66 -266

• W. Ding (China) 67, 66, 69, 66 - 268

• M. Leishman (Aus) 67, 68, 67, 67 - 269

• N. Voke (NZ) 71, 66, 66, 66 - 269

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