18-Year-Old Blades Brown Chases History at The American Express

Can the young phenom become the second-youngest PGA Tour winner ever?

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:04am

A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a golf tournament, with overlapping geometric shapes and planes representing the various elements of the competition.As an 18-year-old phenom chases history at a major golf tournament, the pressure and drama of the final round unfolds in a cubist, geometric interpretation.La Quinta Today

Blades Brown, an 18-year-old golf prodigy, is in contention to make history at The American Express tournament. After an impressive surge in the final three holes of Round 3, Brown has not only made the cut but is now just one shot off the lead heading into the final round. He'll be in the final group on Sunday, paired with current world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and tournament leader Si Woo Kim, as he tries to become the second-youngest winner in PGA Tour history.

Why it matters

The pressure on an 18-year-old to perform against the world's best players in the final group of a PGA Tour event is immense. Brown's potential achievement would be a remarkable feat, showcasing the rising talent of the next generation of golfers. A win would also thrust the young phenom into the national spotlight and potentially kickstart a storied professional career.

The details

Brown has played an impressive eight consecutive days of professional golf leading up to Sunday's final round at the challenging Pete Dye Stadium Course in La Quinta, California. He currently sits at 21-under par, just one shot behind leader Si Woo Kim and tied with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. The final group of Kim, Brown, and Scheffler will tee off at 1:35 PM ET, with the drama set to unfold live on Golf Channel.

  • After an impressive surge in the final three holes of Round 3, Brown has made the cut and is now in contention.
  • The final round of The American Express will take place on Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Blades Brown

An 18-year-old golf prodigy who is in contention to become the second-youngest winner in PGA Tour history.

Scottie Scheffler

The current world No. 1 golfer, who is tied for the lead with Brown heading into the final round.

Si Woo Kim

The tournament leader at 22-under par, who will be in the final group with Brown and Scheffler.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.