Ángel Hidalgo Claims Maiden Title at Spanish Open

Ángel Hidalgo secured his first DP World Tour title by winning the Spanish Open in Madrid, defeating compatriot Jon Rahm in a thrilling play-off. The 26-year-old clinched the victory with a short birdie putt on the second extra hole after missing a birdie opportunity on the 18th that could have won the tournament in regulation. Hidalgo led since the opening round at the Club de Campo Villa de Madrid.

However, he shot a one-under-par 70 on the final day, which allowed three-time champion Rahm to make a strong comeback. Rahm finished with back-to-back birdies for a final score of 68, tying both players at 14 under. In the play-off, Hidalgo matched Rahm’s birdie on the first extra hole before holding his nerve to secure victory against his idol.

“Two or three years ago, I was just here to support Jon. To win the tournament is unreal. Oh, my gosh, it’s amazing,” said Ángel Hidalgo, who previously claimed a title on the Challenger Tour in 2021. Scotland’s Grant Forrest shot an impressive seven-under 64 to finish in a six-way tie for third place, alongside England’s Joe Dean and Tommy Fleetwood.

Sweden’s Jens Fahrbring and the U.S.’s Sean Crocker also finished at 10 under while Spain’s David Puig started strong with four birdies in his first seven holes but faltered with five bogeys, ending with a 71. Rahm’s runner-up finish marked his second appearance on the DP World Tour this season, following a brief illness that had him hospitalized just days before the tournament.

Despite missing out on a record fourth Spanish Open title, he expressed satisfaction with his performance and has entered future events to maintain his membership in the European circuit, crucial for Ryder Cup eligibility.