Cologuard Classic 2025

Birdies and Bumps for Jiménez in Tucson

Miguel Ángel Jiménez, one of the most recognisable figures in Spanish golf, returned to action this past week at the Cologuard Classic 2025, delivering a performance full of energy, experience, and emotion. Set against the scenic backdrop of La Paloma Country Club in Tucson, Arizona, the tournament featured many of the Champions Tour’s top names — and Jiménez was once again right in the mix.

From the very first tee shot, fans could sense that Jiménez was determined to make a statement. Known for his charismatic presence and smooth pace of play, the 60-year-old Spaniard brought a strong competitive spirit to the course. Although the final leaderboard didn’t reflect a top finish, his scorecard told a more nuanced story — one filled with birdies, dramatic momentum swings, and undeniable fight.

With his trademark cigar, passion for the game, and ability to thrill crowds around the world, Jiménez continues to represent the heart of Spanish professional golf on the international stage. And in Tucson, his performance once again reminded everyone why he’s still a force to be reckoned with.

miguel jimenez holding trophy and signature cigar in mouth

A Round of Highs and Lows

Jiménez’s final round was anything but dull. With eight birdies on his card, the Spanish golf legend showcased his scoring ability and trademark flair. However, two double bogeys and a bogey proved costly, preventing him from climbing higher on the leaderboard. He closed the tournament at 1-under-par 212, finishing in a tie for 33rd place.

While not his strongest finish, the round offered plenty of excitement and demonstrated that Jiménez remains a dynamic presence in the world of senior golf.

Steven Alker Claims the Title

Elsewhere in the field, Steven Alker delivered another strong performance, capturing his ninth Champions Tour title. The New Zealander outlasted Jason Caron in a tense playoff, draining a four-meter birdie putt on the first extra hole to seal the victory at the Cologuard Classic 2025. Alker’s win added another impressive chapter to his dominant run on the senior circuit.

A Promising Season for Spanish Golf

Despite the up-and-down nature of this tournament, Jiménez’s broader 2025 season has been promising. Across his first three starts this year, he has delivered:

Thanks to these results, he currently ranks third in the Charles Schwab Cup standings, trailing only Ernie Els and Steven Alker.

As one of the most enduring figures in Spain’s golfing history, Jiménez’s continued presence on the PGA TOUR Champions stage is not only a testament to his longevity but also a source of pride for fans of Spanish golf worldwide.

Looking Ahead – Still a Threat

Jiménez’s ability to bounce back after setbacks and generate birdie chances speaks to his unwavering skill and mental strength. While a few mistakes cost him a stronger finish in Tucson, his performance was packed with encouraging signs.

Looking ahead, he’ll aim to tighten up his course management and eliminate the costly errors that held him back this week. With more tournaments ahead, there’s no doubt that the Malaga-born veteran will continue to push for more victories — and possibly add to his growing legacy as one of Spain’s most beloved golf ambassadors.

Spain’s Place in Senior Golf

Jiménez’s continued relevance on the PGA TOUR Champions is symbolic of the strength and longevity of Spanish professional golf. His performances not only keep Spain in the spotlight but also inspire new generations of golfers back home.

Explore top golf destinations in Spain and plan your next golf holiday here.

Based on reporting from OpenGolf.es and official data from the PGA TOUR Champions.

La Marquesa: Experience TPC Sawgrass’ Legendary 17th Hole in Sunny Alicante

Did you know you can experience the thrill of TPC Sawgrass’ legendary 17th hole in Spain?

That’s right—in Alicante, golfers can test their nerves on an exact replica of the iconic island green from TPC Sawgrass. La Marquesa Golf, nestled in Ciudad Quesada (Rojales) on the sunny Costa Blanca, proudly features its own version of one of golf’s most famous challenges. And we’re not just talking inspiration; Ponte Vedra Beach Club shared the original topographic plans, ensuring every golfer at La Marquesa gets an authentic taste of Florida’s legendary hole.

This unique attraction is part of a significant upgrade initiated by José Ángel Quesada in May 2019, aiming to elevate La Marquesa Golf’s stature even further. Entrusting the redesign to Pascual Jiménez, Quesada’s ambitious vision quickly took shape, reshaping 9 greens and 4 fairways to refresh the historic course that first opened in 1989.

But the real magic happened when Spanish golf legend Miguel Ángel Jiménez joined the project. The charismatic champion offered crucial guidance and even sketched the iconic 17th-hole design right in the sand of a bunker, capturing every detail perfectly.

Recently featured by the prestigious news website Open Golf, La Marquesa Golf has firmly positioned itself among Alicante’s top golfing destinations, praised by local and international players.

TPC Sawgrass and The Players

This week, golf enthusiasts worldwide have their eyes fixed on the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course as The Players Championship—the unofficial “fifth major”—takes place. This tournament is one of the most anticipated events in the golfing calendar, attracting an elite field of professionals competing for one of the largest prize pools in the sport. Central to the drama and excitement each year is the notorious 17th hole, a par-3 surrounded entirely by water, where even the slightest miscalculation can dash championship dreams instantly.

If you’re eager to experience La Marquesa Golf and other spectacular courses along the Costa Blanca, Tee Times Golf Holidays offers unbeatable packages tailored to all golfing enthusiasts. Ready for your Spanish Sawgrass challenge? Pack your clubs and book with Tee Times —your gateway to Alicante’s best golf experiences.

Masters of Design: How Iconic Golf Course Architects Elevated Portugal’s Tourism

Portugal is widely recognised as the best golf and tourism destination in the world. Its picturesque landscapes, mild climate, and challenging courses attract enthusiasts from across the globe. Central to this growing popularity is the influence of world-renowned golf course architects, whose creativity and vision have transformed the Portuguese golfing landscape, solidifying Portugal’s reputation as a global leader in golf tourism.

Legendary architects such as Robert Trent Jones Jr., Sir Henry Cotton, and Jack Nicklaus have left indelible marks on Portugal’s golf heritage. Robert Trent Jones Jr. was celebrated for his artistic integration of natural landscapes as the acclaimed Troia Golf Course. Situated south of Lisbon, Troia offers golfers the thrilling experience of seaside play, seamlessly weaving through dunes and pine forests, showcasing Jones’ philosophy of environmental harmony and aesthetic excellence.

Sir Henry Cotton, a three-time Open Champion turned visionary architect, profoundly impacted Portugal with his iconic Penina Hotel & Golf Resort in the Algarve. Opened in 1966, Penina was Portugal’s first 18-hole course, instantly elevating the country’s global golfing prestige. Cotton’s innovative layout provided a blueprint for subsequent course designs, blending classic British golfing traditions with the vibrant Mediterranean environment.

Golf Course Architects Influence

Jack Nicklaus, perhaps the most famous golfer-turned-architect, has significantly influenced Portugal’s reputation for luxurious and strategically challenging courses. The Monte Rei Golf & Country Club in Algarve epitomises Nicklaus’ meticulous approach, combining precision golf strategies with the region’s natural beauty. His signature designs have attracted significant international tournaments and discerning golfers seeking courses that balance difficulty and elegance.

More recently, golf course architects like Rocky Roquemore and Arthur Hills have further enriched Portugal’s golfing scene. Their designs emphasise sustainability and environmental stewardship, ensuring courses such as Quinta da Marinha near Cascais and Oitavos Dunes provide challenging play while preserving the surrounding ecological habitats. New designers in Portugal include Sergio Garcia, who developed Torre at Terra das Comporta, and Ernie Els, the creative mind behind The Els Club Vilamoura.

Tee Times Golf Holidays have further enhanced Portugal’s golf tourism by offering comprehensive golf packages that combine play at premier courses with accommodations and personalised services. These packages allow golf players to enjoy Portugal’s best golfing experiences tailored to their preferences and needs to enjoy their holidays.

The legacy of these architects has undeniably positioned Portugal at the forefront of global golf tourism. Their collective contribution continues to shape Portugal’s golfing identity, drawing visitors eager to experience the country’s unique blend of innovation, natural splendour, and rich golfing.