DUBLIN, OHIO – Golf fans were treated to a thrilling and emotional ride at the 2025 Memorial Tournament this weekend, where World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler once again proved why he\’s the man to beat. The Texan collected another prestigious win at Muirfield Village Golf Club, cashing in a record-setting payout, while Irishman Shane Lowry, despite leading for most of the tournament, suffered a painful final-round collapse — though not without a consolation prize of his own.
Scheffler Secures Another Jewel in His Crown
In what has become a recurring storyline this season, Scheffler delivered a masterclass in control, resilience, and championship-level golf. The 28-year-old carded a flawless 68 in the final round, bringing his total score to 11-under-par, enough to secure the coveted Memorial Tournament title, hosted by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.
This marks Scheffler’s fifth win of the season, a year already being hailed as historic. With this triumph, he not only tightened his grip on the No. 1 ranking but also took home a jaw-dropping $4 million paycheck, the largest winner’s share in Memorial Tournament history.
“This place means so much to us as players,” Scheffler said as he hoisted the trophy beside Nicklaus. “To win here — with this crowd, this course, and this tradition — it’s incredibly special.”
His play throughout the week was nearly clinical. While others stumbled with Muirfield\’s slick greens and treacherous rough, Scheffler kept his composure, rolling in key birdie putts and avoiding the big numbers that plagued much of the field.
Lowry’s Agony and Ecstasy
For much of the tournament, it looked like Shane Lowry’s name would be etched on the trophy. The 2019 Open Champion entered Sunday with a narrow lead, riding a hot putter and iron play that had fans and pundits whispering about a potential resurgence.
But golf is a cruel game.
Lowry’s final round was marred by inconsistency — errant tee shots, lip-outs, and a costly double-bogey on the par-4 14th that erased his lead for good. As the pressure mounted, his swing tightened, and the wheels began to wobble. He finished with a 75, slipping into a tie for third place at 8-under-par.
Despite the heartbreak, Lowry didn’t leave empty-handed. His efforts earned him a $1.45 million payout, a testament to his overall strong performance over four days. Still, the sting of another near-miss was evident in his post-round interview.
“It’s a tough pill to swallow, no doubt,” Lowry admitted. “But that’s golf. You’ve got to take the good with the bad. I’m proud of how I fought, and I’ll be back.”
Big Names, Big Money
The 2025 Memorial Tournament boasted a loaded field, and many top contenders made their presence known. Defending champion Viktor Hovland rallied late to finish T5, while Rory McIlroy turned in a solid week but couldn’t find the spark he needed on Sunday.
Other notable payouts included:
Collin Morikawa: Runner-up at 10-under, earning $2.2 million
Patrick Cantlay: Tied 5th with Hovland, collecting $750,000
Xander Schauffele: Quiet but consistent, finishing T7 with a $600,000 share
The total purse of $20 million set a new high-water mark for the tournament, signaling the continued rise of prize money on the PGA Tour and the escalating battle for top-tier talent in the world of golf.
Jack’s Stamp of Approval
Tournament host Jack Nicklaus praised the level of competition and lauded Scheffler’s poise. “He’s got the kind of game that lasts, and he’s proving it time and time again. He plays with class, and he wins with class. That’s what this tournament is all about.”
As the sun set over Muirfield Village, the contrast between triumph and heartbreak was on full display. For Scottie Scheffler, the victory reinforced his dominance. For Shane Lowry, it was a reminder of golf’s cruel twists — but also of his elite standing in the game.
One man walks away with the trophy, but both walk away richer — in experience, perspective, and prize money.
