In a stunning display of talent and composure, Karl Vilips won the 2025 Puerto Rico Open at the Grand Reserve Club, shooting an impressive 26-under-par to claim his first PGA Tour victory by a three-stroke margin. This triumph marks a major milestone in the rookie golfer’s career, as it comes just in his fourth start on the PGA Tour.
Vilips, who had earned his tour card after a successful season on the Korn Ferry Tour, now adds a $720,000 check to his career earnings, which previously totaled just over $56,000. Beyond the substantial payout, Vilips’ victory also earned him a PGA Tour exemption through the 2027 season, ensuring his place in future events. The win also grants him entry into the 2025 Players Championship and the 2025 PGA Championship-however, the coveted Masters invite remains out of reach, as opposite-field event winners are not eligible for an invitation.
Puerto Rico Open 2025: Full payout breakout
- Top Finishers and Prize Money Breakdown
- 1st: Karl Vilips – -26 (Score) – $720,000
- 2nd: Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen – -23 (Score) – $436,000
- 3rd: Joseph Bramlett – -21 (Score) – $276,000
- T4: Steven Fisk – -19 (Score) – $196,000
- T4: Kieron Van Wyk (a) – -19 (Score) – $0 (Amateur)
- T6: Matti Schmid – -18 (Score) – $142,250
- T6: Kevin Roy – -18 (Score) – $142,250
- T6: Davis Riley – -18 (Score) – $142,250
- T6: William Mouw – -18 (Score) – $142,250
Notable Payouts Further Down the Leaderboard
The Puerto Rico Open also saw impressive performances further down the leaderboard, with multiple players earning notable payouts:
T10: Brandt Snedeker & Carson Young – -17 (Score) – $113,000 each
T12: Paul Peterson, Noah Goodwin, Garrick Higgo, Norman Xiong – -16 (Score) – $89,000 each
T16: Cameron Champ, Chan Kim, Quade Cummins, Chris Korte, and others – -15 (Score) – $55,240 each
For the players finishing between 26th and 40th, the prize money was still rewarding, with most golfers securing at least $16,600 for their efforts. This includes notable names like Santiago de la Fuente, Henrik Norlander, and Brice Garnett.
The Road Ahead for Vilips
For Vilips, this victory is just the beginning. The 2025 Puerto Rico Open victory not only boosts his bank account but solidifies his standing as one of the rising stars of the PGA Tour. With his exemption through 2027, the young golfer now has the opportunity to build on his success and aim for even greater achievements.
As for the other players, while the winnings might not have been as substantial, the exposure and opportunities gained from competing at the Grand Reserve Club are invaluable, with many earning enough to keep them competitive in the coming months.
The 2025 Puerto Rico Open continues to showcase the allure of opposite-field events, where emerging talents like Karl Vilips can take center stage and make their mark on the PGA Tour. With a substantial purse and high stakes, the event remains a key fixture for both seasoned players and newcomers aiming for a breakout performance.
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