Billy Horschel sorry for ‘generational talent’ Rory McIlroy after Wentworth win

Billy Horschel claimed victory at the BMW PGA Championship, winning the prestigious DP World Tour event for the second time in four years. He triumphed over Rory McIlroy and Thriston Lawrence in a tense playoff after all three finished at 20 under par.

Lawrence was eliminated on the first extra hole when his third shot rolled back into the water, while both McIlroy and Horschel made birdies. The playoff returned to the par-five 18th for a second hole, where Horschel sank an eagle putt after McIlroy narrowly missed his attempt from about 30 feet.

McIlroy, reflecting on his recent struggles, described himself as a “nearly man” after finishing fifth in the Olympics and facing challenges at the US Open and the Irish Open. Despite the disappointments, he remained positive, stating, “Two weeks in a row I’ve played well. Just not quite well enough. I have to keep showing up and playing my game.”

Horschel’s path to victory looked uncertain after he bogeyed the 15th hole, but he rallied with birdies on the 17th and 18th, finishing with a closing 67 to force the playoff. He expressed mixed emotions about winning, praising McIlroy as a “generational talent” and acknowledging their friendship.

“This is one of my favorite weeks of the year,” Horschel said. “I feel almost at home here, and I appreciate the support from the crowds.”

Overall, Horschel’s performance highlighted his resilience, while McIlroy’s perseverance suggests that he remains a formidable competitor with future opportunities ahead.