Brian Campbell won the PGA Tour’s 2025 Mexico Open, securing his maiden PGA Tour victory by defeating Aldrich Potgieter in a playoff that went to a second extra hole.
Campbell entered the final round at Vidanta Vallarta with a one-shot deficit to Potgieter but grabbed the lead before the turn when the South African made bogeys on Nos. 8 and 9. The duo were again deadlocked after Potgieter made a superb up-and-down on the par-5 14th. They each made one bogey coming in to finish at 20-under 264.
The playoff began on the par-5 18th hole, where both players had opportunities to seal the win. Campbell’s approach shot found trouble when he pulled his second shot left into a native area near trees and bushes. It seemed his chances might unravel, but in a stroke of luck, the ball ricocheted off a tree back into the fairway. Seizing the moment, Campbell capitalized with a wedge shot to within 10 feet and sank the par putt. Potgieter, meanwhile, extended the playoff to a second hole with his own par.
Returning to the 18th for the second playoff hole, Campbell maintained his composure. He again reached the green in regulation, while Potgieter’s aggressive play faltered slightly. Campbell two-putted for birdie, and when Potgieter couldn’t match him, the victory was secured. This clutch performance under pressure highlighted Campbell’s ability to stay steady when it mattered most.
At 31, Campbell, a former University of Illinois standout, had been a journeyman of sorts, with eight professional wins — mostly on mini-tours — before this breakthrough. His Mexico Open win not only earned him the $1.26 million prize but also a two-year PGA Tour exemption and a spot in the 2025 Masters, elevating his career trajectory significantly.
Reflecting on the win, Campbell noted the surreal nature of the moment, especially the playoff’s wild swings, crediting that lucky bounce as a pivotal turning point.
“Yeah, that was not by design. I don’t recommend going right on that tee shot,” said Campbell. “I was very fortunate to get the bounce, still in play and then got myself back in position.
“My caddie gave me a perfect number and I trusted it. Gave us a chance against Aldrich, so that was nice.”
Isaiah Salinda posted a final-round 65 to secure solo third on 19 under, one clear of Ben Griffin (67) and Aaron Rai (67) who tied for fourth.
2025 Mexico Open
Top-5 Finishers
1. Brian Campbell -20 (-2)
2. Aldrich Potgieter -20 (-1)
3. Isaiah Salinda -19 (-7)
4. Ben Griffin -18 (-5)
4. Aaron Rai -18 (-5)
Grok 3.0 assisted with report.
