Mardy Fish Claims Third American Century Championship Title

Fish Joins Elite ACC Club

Mardy Fish cemented his place among golf’s Most‑Improved athletes by winning a third American Century Championship (ACC). The former tennis star captured the title in 2020, 2024 and now 2025, matching the achievements of Tony Romo and Mark Mulder, who each boast three victories. Fish, once the top‑ranked American in 2011 and world No. 7, boasts a résumé that includes six ATP titles, a U.S. Davis Cup captaincy, an Olympic silver medal and quarterfinal runs at three Grand Slam events.

When asked by NBC Sports’ Jimmy Roberts if he ever wondered about a career in golf, Fish laughed and replied, “No, I think I played the right sport, but I am obsessed with this game,” he said. “I do love playing. This is the best week of the year. It’s the best email of the year when you get the invite.” His affection for the ACC was evident as he celebrated his third triumph on the same day Jannik Sinner clinched his second straight Wimbledon crown.

Tense Final Hole and Victory Margin

Unlike his previous two ACC wins in South Lake Tahoe, Nevada, Fish entered the final round with a comfortable lead at the Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. The pressure shifted to Joe Pavelski, who needed an eagle to catch him, but his shot on the last hole splashed into water, sealing Fish’s advantage. A jittery moment unfolded on the 16th when an errant second shot lodged in a greenside banker, yet Fish executed a deft scramble for birdie and ultimately prevailed by six points in the modified Stableford system.

Fish later reflected on the stretch, noting, “I figured if I didn’t go backwards, I would maybe be OK,” he said. “And the conditions were pretty tough here in the last couple of holes.” The six‑point margin highlighted both his clutch play and Pavelski’s gallant but costly attempt.

Star Power in the Field

The ACC field this year was a showcase of sporting talent, with NBA superstar Steph Curry finishing third with 59 points, followed closely by LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam (58) and MLB Hall of Famer John Smoltz (55). Their presence underscored the tournament’s appeal beyond traditional golfers, drawing eyes from basketball, golf and baseball communities alike.

The competition also featured former NFL quarterback Tony Romo, who placed fourth, and a host of athletes from other leagues, turning the event into a cross‑sport showcase.

Fish’s Outlook on the ACC Legacy

Beyond the victory, Fish’s comments revealed a deep enthusiasm for the ACC experience, calling it the highlight of his calendar. His journey from tennis courts to golf tees serves as a case study in athletes who successfully transition between disciplines, using golfing’s strategic depth to complement their athletic background.

The win also reshapes the ACC’s all‑time leaderboard, tying Fish with Romo and Mulder at four career titles and positioning him behind Rick Rhoden’s eight victories, Dan Quinn’s five and Billy Joe Tolliver’s four.

Full Top‑10 Finishers

• Mardy Fish – 72 points
• Joe Pavelski – 66 points
• Steph Curry – 59 points
• Annika Sorenstam – 58 points
• John Smoltz – 55 points
• Tony Romo – 52 points
• Derek Lowe – 50 points
• Taylor Twellman – 47 points
• Matt Boldy – 43 points
• Dwight Freeney – 42 points