NICO GETS GOING ON TOUGH HOLES

Zozo winner says challenging course works in his favour; Yin continues hot form in KL

INZAI - Nico Echavarria sank a short birdie putt at the final hole on Oct 27 to win his second PGA Tour title by a single stroke at the Zozo Championship in Japan.

The Colombian's three-under 67 avoided a play-off with two-time Major winner Justin Thomas (66) and his fellow American Max Greyserman (65), who finished tied for second.

Echavarria reached the green in two at the par-five 18th and calmly rolled up a 40-foot eagle attempt to three feet before stroking home the winning putt at Narashino Country Club.

"It's surreal, this moment is very special," said the 30-year-old, whose previous win came at the Puerto Rico Open in March 2023.

"It's been a good year for me, I just haven't had that top result. I've been very consistent, I've learnt a lot this year."

Echavarria took a two-shot lead into the final round, where he recorded five birdies to finish on 20-under 260.

A bogey at the eighth and another at No. 14 had opened the door for Thomas and Greyserman, but the Colombian held his nerve to birdie two of the final three holes for the victory.

"I don't think I would have won this week without the victory in Puerto Rico," he said.