A duel between titans

The Greenbrier, with its challenging Old White TPC course, provided the perfect setting for a showdown between Koepka and Rahm. Throughout the tournament, both players showcased the form and tenacity that have made them household names in the golfing world. Koepka, known for his calm under pressure, and Rahm, with his fiery competitiveness, were neck and neck for much of the final round.

Koepka's power off the tee and precise iron play were on full display as he navigated the course with a mix of aggression and caution. Rahm, equally formidable, matched Koepka shot for shot, displaying his trademark consistency and touch around the greens. As the final round unfolded, it became clear that this would be a battle between two of the game’s best, both determined to outlast the other.

The play-off showdown

After 54 holes, Koepka and Rahm were tied at 15-under par, setting the stage for a sudden-death play-off. The tension was palpable as the two stars returned to the 18th hole, a par-3 that had been challenging players all week.

Koepka, playing first, struck a crisp iron shot that landed safely on the green, about 20 feet from the hole. Rahm followed with an equally impressive shot, his ball coming to rest just inside Koepka's. With both players facing birdie putts, the stage was set for a nerve-wracking finish.

Koepka, with his characteristic focus, stepped up and calmly rolled his putt into the center of the cup, setting the pressure squarely on Rahm. The Spaniard, needing to sink his putt to extend the play-off, narrowly missed to the right, giving Koepka the victory.

Final leaderboard

1. Brooks Koepka - 15-under par (Play-off winner)
2. Jon Rahm - 15-under par
3. Dustin Johnson - 14-under par
4. Cameron Smith - 13-under par
5. Bryson DeChambeau - 12-under par
6. Patrick Reed - 11-under par
7. Phil Mickelson - 10-under par
8. Sergio Garcia - 9-under par
9. Louis Oosthuizen - 8-under par
10. Abraham Ancer - 7-under par

A statement win in LIV Golf

This victory is significant for Koepka as it marks his first win in the 2024 LIV Golf season and further cements his status as one of the premier players in the league. Having already proven himself on the biggest stages in golf, including his multiple major championships, Koepka’s triumph at the Greenbrier adds to his legacy as a player who thrives under pressure.

Koepka’s win is also a testament to his ability to rebound from adversity. After dealing with injuries and the challenges of competing in a new league, this victory signals that Koepka is still very much at the top of his game and capable of taking on the best in the world.

Looking ahead in LIV Golf

With the Greenbrier victory under his belt, Koepka now turns his attention to the remaining events in the 2024 LIV Golf season. The win not only boosts his confidence but also positions him strongly in the season standings as he looks to secure the overall championship.

For Rahm, the narrow loss will undoubtedly fuel his drive in the coming weeks. Despite the disappointment, his performance at the Greenbrier reaffirms his place as one of the most consistent and dangerous players in the world. The rivalry between Koepka and Rahm, already one of the most compelling in golf, is likely to intensify as the season progresses.

As the LIV Golf series continues, fans can look forward to more high-stakes drama and top-tier competition. Koepka’s victory at the Greenbrier is just the latest example of the excitement and unpredictability that LIV Golf brings to the sport. With more tournaments on the horizon, both Koepka and Rahm will be eager to build on their performances, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the season.

Koepka's win at the Greenbrier is a reminder of why he remains one of the most clutch performers in golf—a player who rises to the occasion when the stakes are highest. As the season unfolds, the golf world will be watching closely to see if he can carry this momentum forward and claim further glory in the months to come.