Highlighted by a sizzling back-nine stretch, Francesco Molinari romped the field at TPC Potomac, shooting a flawless final-day 62 to win the 2018 Quicken Loans National by eight shots.
Leading by three shots after turning in 33, Molinari pulled away from the field during the early stages of his in-nine when he drained a 50-foot eagle putt on No. 10, followed by four-straight birdies en route to a 72-hole total of 21-under par.
It was Molinari’s maiden title on the PGA Tour, and in the process he became the first native Italian in more than 70 years (Toney Penna, 1947 Atlanta Open) to claim victory on America’s major golf tour.
The win earned Molinari $1,278,000 and 500 FedExCup points which moved him to 41st (from 143rd) on the PGA Tour’s points standings. The 35-year old Turin, Italy native also received 34 OWGR points, and will move up one spot, from 17 to 16 in the Official World Golf Rankings.
Runner-up Ryan Armour, meanwhile, was awarded a check for $766,800 and 300 FedEx points, along with 20.4 OWGR points.
FINAL MONEY: QUICKEN LOANS NATIONAL
TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm | Potomac, MD | July 1, 2018
