Padraig Harrington Wins Second US Senior Open Title by One Stroke

Padraig Harrington secured his second U.S. Senior Open title in four years with a one-stroke victory over Stewart Cink at the Broadmoor, finishing at 11-under 269. Harrington demonstrated strategic boldness on the 18th hole by choosing an aggressive approach shot that set up an 8-foot putt, applying pressure on Cink whose subsequent longer approach and missed birdie attempt sealed the outcome. Throughout the tournament, Harrington shared that he avoided watching the scoreboard to maintain focus, only confirming the competition status late in the final round, mindful of Miguel Angel Jimenez's threat. Harrington credited past advice from Hale Irwin about playing shots as if trailing by a stroke, which influenced his decisive play. The victory not only validated Harrington's career but also earned him a spot in the upcoming U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills. The tournament felt like match play due to the intense rivalry, with Harrington and Cink competing in the same group for four consecutive days.