Chris Gotterup Wins Phoenix Open After Missing Teammate's Wedding

Gotterup's victory marks his third win in 10 PGA Tour starts, despite missing his friend's wedding ceremony.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Chris Gotterup captured the WM Phoenix Open title on Sunday, marking his third victory in his last ten PGA Tour starts, even though he missed the wedding of a close friend and former Rutgers golf teammate, Jack Panagos. Gotterup's decision to compete instead of attending the celebration exemplified his commitment to his career at this key tournament.

Why it matters

Gotterup's win at the WM Phoenix Open reflects his rising trajectory on the PGA Tour and highlights the sacrifices athletes sometimes make for their sport. This achievement not only cements his position as a serious competitor but may strengthen his relationships off the course through gestures recognizing missed personal moments.

The details

Though Gotterup was absent from Panagos's wedding ceremony on Saturday, the groom and his friends celebrated his dramatic playoff triumph the following day. Panagos shared a heartfelt video capturing their genuine excitement over Gotterup's win, calling it 'one special wedding gift.' The camaraderie between the teammates remained strong, with Panagos pushing through a hangover just to cheer on his friend's impressive performance.

  • Gotterup missed his teammate's wedding on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
  • Gotterup won the WM Phoenix Open on Sunday, February 9, 2026.

The players

Chris Gotterup

A professional golfer who won the WM Phoenix Open, despite missing his teammate's wedding.

Jack Panagos

Gotterup's close friend and former Rutgers golf teammate, who got married on the same weekend as the WM Phoenix Open.

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What they’re saying

“One special wedding gift!”

— Jack Panagos, Groom (Instagram)

What’s next

Fans will be watching to see how Gotterup's balance between personal life and professional ambitions continues to shape his career moving forward.

The takeaway

This case highlights the sacrifices athletes sometimes make for their sport, as well as the importance of maintaining strong relationships off the course, even when personal milestones are missed due to professional commitments.