Alex Cejka

Stricker falters on final day of Senior PGA

May 31, 2021 By Bill Scott

Steve Stricker

Madison’s Steve Stricker started the final day with a 1-shot lead over Alex Cejka, but Stricker imploded with a 7-over-par 77. Cejka went on to a four-shot win over Tim Petrovic in capturing the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship.

It’s the second major title of the 2021 season for Cejka after beating Stricker to win the Regions Tradition in Birmingham, Alabama.

Cejka became the first Champions rookie to win two majors since Jack Nicklaus did it in 1990. He’s the first Champions player ever to win his first two majors on the circuit.

Retief Goosen and K.J. Choi tied for third at 3-under.

Madison’s Jerry Kelly finished 8-shots back, just ahead of Stricker.

Stricker falls short in Traditions playoff

May 10, 2021 By Bill Scott

Steve Stricker

Madison’s Steve Stricker fell just short of winning the third PGA Tour Champions major of his career.

Stricker, who won the Regions Tradition the last time it was held in 2019, a month after winning the U.S. Senior Open, had a three stroke lead in the final round Sunday. But Alex Cejka rallied to take the lead before Stricker came to 18 needing to make a putt to force a playoff, which he did.

But Stricker went on to miss an 8-footer for birdie on the first playoff hole and Cejka won the Regions Tradition after making the field as first alternate when Jay Haas withdrew on Monday.

Robert Karlsson was third while Ernie Els and Madison’s Jerry Kelly tied for fourth.

By winning Sunday, Cejka earns an exemption for the next two seasons.