Connecticut golfer Ben James falls in PGA Tour playoff, still seeks first professional victory

Connecticut golfer Ben James, 23, experienced disappointment in the PGA Tour's Wild Wide Technology Championship in Mexico on Sunday, November 8, 2026. Despite entering the final round with a four-stroke lead, James ultimately fell short in a sudden-death playoff against Blades Brown. The match came down to the par-5 18th hole, where both players had eagles on the first playoff hole and made gimme birdies.

In the second sudden death, each golfer missed their second shots and made birdie putts. James ultimately lost the playoff after not making the final birdie putt on the 18th hole. James, from Milford, had been trying to secure his first PGA Tour victory since turning pro in June. He had a poor front nine, three-putting on the 10th hole, and struggled to find his game throughout the round.

Despite missing several birdie putts, James managed to force the playoff with a 20-foot eagle putt on the 18th hole. Both golfers, who knew each other since their amateur days, expressed their respect for each other's skills. Brown, who turned professional at 17, praised James' putting and expressed his enthusiasm for potential future competitions between them.

James currently holds 53rd place in the fall FedExCup standings, qualifying for the first two Signature Events of 2027.