Marco Penge Triumphs in Open de España, Eyes Majors and PGA Tour Amidst Remarkable Comeback
October 12, 2025
His story exemplifies resilience, positivity, and redemption, turning personal setbacks into professional success, and he remains focused on future goals, including competing in all four majors next year.
His victory also secures his place in the 154th Open at Royal Birkdale next year, adding to his growing list of achievements.
Throughout the final day, Penge maintained mental resilience amidst pressure from competitors like Brown and Girrbach, emphasizing his focus and determination.
Marco Penge secured his third DP World Tour victory of the year at the Open de España, a historic tournament established in 1912, by defeating Dan Brown in a sudden-death playoff, earning invitations to The Masters and The Open.
Penge, who held a four-shot lead before the final round, finished with a par on the 18th hole to force the playoff after Brown birdied to catch up, demonstrating resilience under pressure.
His victory marks a significant milestone as it grants him entry into major tournaments, including his debut at Augusta National, where he believes his game suits the course, and he aims to reach the top 50 in the world rankings by year-end.
Penge’s comeback story is remarkable, rising from a betting suspension and personal challenges, including an ADHD diagnosis, to challenge top players like Rory McIlroy and climb from No.55 to No.31 in the world rankings.
Previously banned for three months in December 2024 for betting on multiple events, Penge has since resumed his career successfully, winning three tournaments this year and qualifying for the 2025-26 PGA Tour season.
Expressing gratitude and optimism, Penge credits his mental resilience and solid tee-to-green play for his victory, with ambitions to win more titles and challenge golf legends in the future.
His victory was achieved despite feeling under pressure and believing the 'golfing gods were against him,' especially during a challenging final round with firm and fast greens.
The tournament's final was competitive, with Penge only making one birdie in regulation, highlighting the difficulty of the conditions faced by all contenders.
Already qualified for the 2025-26 PGA Tour, Penge is also eyeing a spot in the European Ryder Cup team in Ireland in two years, aiming to further establish himself on the international stage.
Summary based on 16 sources
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Sources

BBC Sport • Oct 12, 2025
Spanish Open: England's Marco Penge wins play-off to take Madrid title
BBC Sport • Oct 12, 2025
Spanish Open: England's Marco Penge wins play-off to take Madrid title
The Telegraph • Oct 12, 2025
Marco Penge shows power of positivity after going from betting ban to Masters berth
ESPN • Oct 12, 2025
Marco Penge wins Spanish Open, earns Masters, Open bids - ESPN