From New Father to Champion: Rafael Campos Makes History at Butterfield Bermuda Championship

In a week that began with the birth of his daughter and ended with his maiden PGA Tour victory, Rafael Campos crafted an unforgettable story at the 2024 Butterfield Bermuda Championship. The 36-year-old Puerto Rican clinched a decisive three-shot victory at Port Royal Golf Course, marking a dramatic turnaround in what had been a challenging season.

Campos, who arrived in Bermuda just hours before his first-round tee time after witnessing the birth of his daughter Paola, demonstrated remarkable composure throughout the tournament. His final round of 68 in demanding windy conditions secured a tournament total of 19-under 265, earning him not only his first PGA Tour victory but also $1.2 million in prize money.

“It’s been an unbelievable week, the best week of my life,” Campos said, tears streaming down his face after sinking the winning putt. The victory carried extra significance as it launched him from 147th to 80th in the FedExCup Fall Standings, securing his tour card for the next two years.

The win marked a stunning reversal of fortunes for Campos, who had missed 16 cuts in 24 events this season. His persistence through adversity paid off at the most crucial moment, making him only the second Puerto Rican to win on the PGA Tour since the legendary Chi Chi Rodriguez, who passed away in August at 88.

The final round unfolded as a tense battle, with Campos sharing the lead early with Americans Andrew Novak and Justin Lower. The turning point came at the par-5 7th hole, where Campos eagled to grab a share of the lead. He seized control with consecutive birdies at the 10th and 11th holes, building a cushion that proved insurmountable.

Novak, the runner-up who finished at 16-under, acknowledged the difficult conditions: “We haven’t cut the greens since Friday, the wind is blowing 30 mph, and even two-foot putts were not safe.” It was so scary today.”

For Campos, the victory transcended personal achievement. “There’s so much talent back home; they just need a little belief that they can make it,” he reflected, hoping his success would inspire young golfers in Puerto Rico. “One of my goals is to be a role model to the junior golfers back home.”

The win carries special resonance in Puerto Rican golf history, coming decades after Rodriguez’s last victory. Campos’ triumph at Bermuda adds another chapter to the tournament’s tradition of emotional victories, following Camilo Villegas’ moving win last year.

Belgian Adrien Dumont de Chassart and Mark Hubbard shared third place at 15 under, while 2022 champion Séamus Power posted the day’s lowest round with a 65.

As champagne showers marked his victory celebration, Campos’ thoughts turned to his newborn daughter and wife waiting at home. “After such a bad year, to have things go my way—everything together at once—I’m just so happy and grateful,” he said, embodying the perseverance and belief that define golf’s greatest moments.