Darren Clarke Secures Second PGA Tour Champions Team Title at American Family Insurance Championship
Darren Clarke claimed his second victory in the American Family Insurance Championship, a PGA Tour Champions team event, partnering with Ben Crane to clinch the title with a four-under-par 67 in the final round. The win marked Clarke’s sixth career victory on the senior circuit and Crane’s first, as the duo narrowly edged out Kenny Perry and George McNeill by one stroke at TPC Wisconsin.
Team Format and Tournament Highlights
The tournament featured 38 two-man teams competing in a hybrid format: four-ball (best ball) on Friday and Sunday, and a scramble on Saturday. Clarke and Crane capitalized on the scramble format, posting a tournament-record 17 under par to take the lead. Despite a slow start on Sunday, the pair secured their win with three birdies on the back nine, finishing at 30 under par.
“You can see why this guy’s won Ryder Cup after Ryder Cup,” Crane said of Clarke, praising his mental resilience. “It’s just elite golf, elite mentally. We didn’t have our best stuff, but we stepped up when it mattered.”
Clarke’s Partnership Strategy and Legacy
Clarke, a 2011 Open champion and key member of four European Ryder Cup teams, emphasized his knack for picking strong partners. He previously won the event in 2025 with Thomas Bjorn, who was unable to compete this season due to back surgery. This year’s victory with Crane, who turned 50 earlier in 2026 and is in his first season on the PGA Tour Champions, highlights his adaptability and experience.
“Our goal was to get ourselves in the mix on the back nine on Sunday, and that’s what we did,” Clarke said, reflecting on the team’s strategy. The win further cements Clarke’s status as one of the most consistent performers in senior golf.
Context and Significance of the Victory
The American Family Insurance Championship is unique as the PGA Tour Champions’ only team event, blending individual skill with collaborative strategy. Clarke’s success underscores his ability to thrive in dynamic formats, a trait that has defined his career across multiple tours. His previous victory in 2025 with Bjorn also demonstrated his versatility in partnership play.
For Crane, the win represents a milestone in his transition to the senior circuit. At 50, he joins a growing roster of veteran players who continue to compete at the highest level, showcasing the longevity and competitiveness of PGA Tour Champions.
What’s Next for Clarke and the PGA Tour Champions?
With this win, Clarke moves closer to potential milestones in the 2026 season, including the Charles Schwab Cup Championship. The American Family Insurance Championship’s team format has also sparked discussions about expanding similar events to other tournaments, though no official announcements have been made.
As the PGA Tour Champions continues to evolve, Clarke’s victory serves as a reminder of the blend of skill, strategy, and mental toughness required to succeed in elite golf. His performance at TPC