Robert MacIntyre had quite the week, clinching his first PGA Tour victory at the RBC Canadian Open with his father, Dougie, as his caddie. The win brought not just professional milestones but also touching family moments.
MacIntyre, the 27-year-old Scottish golfer, secured his victory in his 45th PGA Tour start, which also provided him much-needed job security on Tour. He has been candid about the emotional toll of playing golf far from home, mentioning his struggles with homesickness and the business-like mentality of the sport.
Living in Orlando, Florida, MacIntyre acknowledged how tough it has been compared to his hometown of Oban, Scotland. “It’s not like Oban. When I go back home, it’s a lot of friends and family you get to spend time with, my nieces, everyone that’s close to me and really cares for me. When I’m in America, it’s just me, my girlfriend, and we’re trying to — I don’t know, trying to live as good a life as we can. But it’s difficult when we’re both so close to family and friends,” MacIntyre shared.
Sunday’s win, achieved with a final round of 68, gave him a one-shot lead over Ben Griffin and unlocked several opportunities: entry into the final two Signature Events of the season, more events next year, a spot in the Masters, and PGA Tour membership extended through 2026.
Dougie, MacIntyre’s father, stepped in as an emergency caddie, and their collaboration paid off. Having his dad on the bag came with a unique emotional support. “He’s going to get a nice paycheck out of it, and my mom and dad will be mortgage-free now. He just wants me to do well because I’m his son, and there’s no angles to it, there’s nothing. It’s just sheer fight for me,” MacIntyre said.
After the victory, MacIntyre FaceTimed his mother to share the news. The call was filled with joy and humor. “Winner, winner, chicken dinner!” she exclaimed. MacIntyre jokingly added, “You might not see Dad until next week, from a bender.” The emotional conversation also included MacIntyre hinting at paying off the family mortgage, sparking tears from his mom.
The win came with a hefty $1.692 million check, surpassing his earnings from the previous 15 starts combined this season. The call ended with MacIntyre and his mom exchanging heartfelt sentiments of love and pride.
Robert MacIntyre’s first PGA Tour victory wasn’t just a landmark in his career; it was a heartfelt family affair that brought joy and financial relief to his loved ones. With his dad by his side and his mom on the line, this win will be remembered for years to come.
