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via Imago

via Imago

The second round of the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic was full of surprises. Defending champion Tony Finau exited the tournament after failing to make the cut by two shots. Meanwhile, less than a week after his top-10 finish at the Travelers Championship, two-time major winner Justin Thomas missed the mark at Detroit Golf Club by five as well, losing out on his chance at a piece of the $8.8 million purse.

Amidst the shocking exits, however, one competing golfer has managed to delight the golf world with his performance at the ongoing event. Let’s jump in to find out more about how a young Barberton native and golfer is currently winning hearts on social media!

John Shippen winner’s performance on the PGA Tour leads to heartwarming celebrations

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Just a few days ago, the Detroit Golf Club in Michigan played host to the John Shippen Invitational. Named in honor of the first black player to appear in the US Open, the tournament saw Chase Johnson from Barberton, Ohio, emerge as the winner. With the victory, Johnson also gained an exemption for the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic. Now, two rounds into the PGA Tour event, the 27-year-old has impressed many with his golfing chops. He even made the cut on Friday, leading to wild celebrations.

Soon after he made it into the weekend by shooting a pair of 70s, Johnson was surrounded by delighted friends and family members. His emotional parents engulfed him in hugs. “Okay, I’m going to try to hold back my tears,” his father confessed. The golfer’s fiancée, Katie, was also present to celebrate his success.

 

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Meanwhile, Johnson is already envisioning many other successful feats down the road. “First cut. First of many,” he noted, sharing a fist bump with his dad. The 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic has a prize purse of $8,800,000, out of which the tournament winner stands to win $1,584,000 in earnings, something Johnson will certainly be eyeing!

Fans react to Chase Johnson’s performance at the Rocket Mortgage Classic

After the PGA Tour shared the emotionally charged reactions of Chase Johnson’s loved ones to his incredible feat, golf fans were quick to show their love for the golfer. “Congratulations this is just the start,” wrote one Instagram user. “Nice playing @chasejohnson96 …. keep your foot on the gas, don’t tap the breaks and have yourself a great weekend! Peace, kk,” read another comment.

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The only other PGAT event Johnson has appeared in was the 2021 Memorial Tournament. In that tournament, he missed the cut after posting rounds of 72–75. No wonder his achievement in Detroit drew such wholesome celebrations!

Congrats @chasejohnson96 and fam. Still remember them following you around in HS. Well deserved. Keep that putter hot,” said one golf enthusiast. “Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaa buddy,” wrote another delighted fan. “Yes, yes, yes @chasejohnson96 ! So happy for you, LFG!!!!

It certainly does seem like the PGA Tour star has won over the golf world as they rally in favor of him this week.

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Which golfer are you rooting for to win the Rocket Mortgage Classic? Let us know in the comments!