Novak and Coughlin Capture Grant Thornton Title with Record Score

Andrew Novak and Lauren Coughlin secured a decisive victory at the Grant Thornton Invitational, finishing with a remarkable score of 28-under 188 on March 10, 2024. The duo’s performance, which included a final round of 9-under 63 in modified fourballs, earned them a three-shot lead over their closest competitors at the Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida.

The pair faced significant competition from Chris Gotterup and Jennifer Kupcho, who were in the mix until the par-5 17th hole. Both Gotterup and Kupcho encountered difficulties, missing the green in challenging positions and struggling to secure par. Meanwhile, Novak delivered a crucial 6-foot birdie putt on the same hole, propelling his team to a two-shot lead as they approached the final hole.

Coughlin followed up with a birdie putt of her own, solidifying their victory and setting a tournament record. Their score of 28-under not only reflects their skill but also marks the largest margin of victory in the event’s history.

Novak, who previously claimed the Zurich Classic of New Orleans alongside Ben Griffin, expressed enthusiasm about their achievement. He humorously referred to their mixed-team title as a potential “modern-day grand slam,” highlighting the significance of their win in a format that pairs PGA Tour and LPGA Tour players.

As the final groups played out, Novak noted that he only realized the extent of their lead on the 13th green when he glanced at the leaderboard. He acknowledged their advantage in terms of birdie opportunities, stating, “We had more holes than anyone else.” This advantage was evident as he sank a series of birdie putts, including a 7-foot birdie on the 13th and subsequent 10-foot birdies on both the 14th and 15th holes.

In modified fourballs, each player hits a tee shot, and they then alternate playing the other’s ball for the remainder of the hole, with the lower score counting. This format played to the strengths of both Novak and Coughlin, allowing them to capitalize on each other’s skills effectively.

Both players took home $500,000 in prize money, marking the largest payout for Coughlin, who had already celebrated two wins on the LPGA Tour last year. Meanwhile, Denny McCarthy and Nelly Korda, who also shot 63, and Michael Brennan and Charley Hull, who finished with 65, trailed behind in the final standings.

In a pivotal moment, Korda missed a crucial 10-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole that could have kept her and McCarthy in contention for second place. Korda will have another opportunity to secure a title as she prepares to partner with her father in the upcoming PNC Championship.

This victory not only highlights Novak and Coughlin’s prowess in the sport but also enhances their profiles as emerging talents in the world of professional golf.