Gareth Bale impresses at Pebble Beach Pro-Am as Justin Rose wins for first time in 4 years
Gareth Bale left his mark on one of the world’s most prestigious golf tournaments on his pro-am debut at Pebble Beach which saw Justin Rose secure his first win in four years.
The 42 year old Rose, who led the pro event by two shots, hit three birdies to card a six-under round of 66, making him the winner by three strokes, over Americans Brendon Todd and Brandon Wu, whereas the 33 year old amateur Bale secured a highly commendable 16th at Pebble Beach.
The tournament’s final round was postponed to Sunday due to a lack of light. Meanwhile, the amateur contest was reduced to 54 holes because of the strong winds in California.
Welsh football legend Bale and US golfer Joseph Bramlett were among the 156 participants and ended at 16 under. NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers topped the amateur scoreboard at 26 under, alongside Canadian pro Ben Silverman.
The former Real Madrid forward, who plays off a two-handicap, was overwhelmed after the tournament.
“The last couple of weeks have been amazing. People giving me compliments on my game is incredible, they have put a bit too much pressure on my shoulders.
“I am a big golf fan and appreciate what these players do on the golf course. It is great to play with them, interact and watch what they do.
“Just watching him [Bramlett] strike a ball is something else. The power, the touch. He has been incredible and he is an even better guy, which is more important. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.”
Former US Open champion Rose led by two shots on 15 under when the pro event resumed on Monday and the Englishman hit three more birdies to card a six-under round of 66.
It was Rose’s 11th PGA Tour victory, but his first since the 2019 Farmers Insurance Open.
“Time flies by, doesn’t it? It’s amazing how long it has been. This is just a moment to say thanks to the people that believe in me more than probably I do.
“My team have been incredible, obviously my family at home. And to my squad, there’s been lots of people who have rallied around me, and I’ve just had an unbelievable week.”
Gareth Bale at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AM. ⛳️
A legend in two sports. ⚽️ 🏌️♂️ pic.twitter.com/2c8hhG1cwA
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 2, 2023
