The American Express tournament has witnessed remarkable moments throughout its 65-year history on the PGA Tour. From Arnold Palmer’s five victories to Johnny Miller’s consecutive wins and John Cook’s spectacular four-hole playoff in 5-under par, this event has always been filled with excitement in the desert. However, amidst all the Hall of Famers, great shots, and Bob Hope’s involvement, there is one day that stands out among the rest.
As this year’s American Express showcases low 60s scores day after day, it is an opportune time to reflect on and appreciate David Duval’s unforgettable final-round 59 in the 1999 tournament on the Palmer Course at PGA West. Even after 25 years, this round still resonates with golf fans not only in the desert but around the world.
The Unforgettable Round
While some may argue that Al Geiberger’s original 59 on the PGA Tour in 1977 holds the crown for the best round of golf, many fans consider Duval’s 59 a close second. Duval’s round was filled with incredible shots, evidenced by hitting his approach inside six feet a staggering nine times. His longest putt was only 10 feet, and he made all his putts by knocking down flagsticks throughout the day.
Contrary to popular belief, Duval had not won the tournament when he ecstatically celebrated after making a six-foot eagle putt on the 18th hole to cap off the historic round. Starting the day seven shots behind the 72-hole leader, Fred Funk, Duval’s round unfolded in front of the leaders. It wasn’t until Steve Pate missed a crucial putt in the final group on the 18th hole that Duval’s victory became secured. If Duval had shot 59 but not won the tournament, the tale of his remarkable performance would have been different.
Starting with an impressive front-nine 31, including a birdie on the challenging par-4 ninth hole, Duval ignited on the back nine. He recorded birdies on six of the first seven holes before delivering the iconic eagle on the 18th, resulting in an astonishing 8-under 28 on the back nine.
David Duval was already on a hot streak, having won eight tournaments in just 16 months, which included the Tournament of Champions a mere two weeks prior to the 1999 American Express. His 59, coupled with the victory, propelled him to the top of the world rankings, surpassing Tiger Woods. He continued his dominance by winning four tournaments that season leading up to the Masters. The 59 exemplified the remarkable form Duval displayed during that period.
The Impact on the Tournament
While Adam Hadwin’s 59 in the 2017 tournament at La Quinta Country Club was an exceptional round of golf, Duval’s 59 became synonymous with the event itself. During a time when Bob Hope’s participation was dwindling and other prominent names were avoiding the desert tournament, Duval injected new energy into the event, previously known as the Bob Hope Classic.
Throughout this week’s tournament, there have been players threatening to shoot a 59 but eventually falling short with scores of 61 or 62. Although those are still outstanding performances, they fall far from the remarkable feat of a 59. Shooting a 59 under the pressure of national television and during the final round of a PGA Tour event elevates Duval’s round to another level.
Mike Tirico’s iconic call, “59! The best final round… ever!” immortalized Duval’s unforgettable performance. Despite subsequent rounds on the PGA Tour matching or even surpassing his achievement over the past 25 years, Duval’s 59 has etched its place in the annals of American Express history.
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