Photo: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images
A Comeback Beyond Golf
In a heartening turn of events at the 2023 Butterfield Bermuda Championship, Camilo Villegas, once a world No. 7, secured his first PGA Tour win in over nine years. This victory, however, carried a profound personal significance, marking his triumph over adversity and loss.
A Father’s Victory, A Daughter’s Legacy
The win at Port Royal Golf Course in Southampton, Bermuda, is more than just a professional milestone for the 41-year-old Colombian golfer. Villegas, now a father, dedicated the victory to his 22-month-old daughter, who lost her battle with cancer three years ago. In a poignant post-round interview, he shared, “My little one up there, she’s watching. She’s where she needs to be after a long fight.”
From Tragedy to Triumph
The path to this triumph was fraught with difficulties. Villegas had notched his last win at the 2014 Wyndham Championship, and recent years saw him grappling with injuries, including shoulder surgeries. His ranking plummeted to No. 752, a far cry from his former glory. However, fueled by resilience and guided by a new swing coach, Villegas defied the odds and emerged victorious.
A Golfing Resurgence
A Family’s Journey
Before the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, Villegas hadn’t secured a top-10 finish since the 2021 Honda Classic. His resurgence began with a sponsor exemption into the World Wide Technology Championship in Mexico, where he finished T-2, paving the way for his remarkable win in Bermuda. His triumph demonstrated not only his skill as a golfer but also the strength of willpower.
The Villegas family’s story is one of both sorrow and joy. After Mia passed away in 2020, Camilo and his wife Maria started a foundation called Mia’s Miracles to help families coping with pediatric cancer. Despite the heartache, their mission turned tragedy into an opportunity to bring about positive change.
A New Chapter: Fatherhood and Halloween Fun
Adding a sweet note to the narrative, the Villegas family welcomed son Mateo in late 2021. The golfer’s dedication to his family is clear from his Halloween cop costume collaboration with Mateo to his adoption of the Spider-Man moniker as a lighthearted nod to his son.
The Spider-Man Comeback
Villegas’s return to triumph involved more than just swing adjustments and physical fortitude—it involved a mental battle as well. Villegas accepted the challenge, earning the nickname “Spider-Man” for his distinctive putting technique of extending out on all fours to study putts close to grass. Tattooing ‘positive energy’ and ‘attitude’ on his wrists, he found a winning mindset that transcended the fairways.
Overcoming Nature’s Challenge
The final round at Port Royal presented its own challenges with the wind, the course’s primary defense, blowing at its hardest. However, Villegas remained unfazed, showcasing his skill and composure. His lead was cemented by a series of birdies, which included an amazing 25-footer, and he eventually won at 24-under 260.
The Emotional Culmination
Villegas lost all emotional control as the last putt sank. He said, looking back on the trip, “I felt the energy building up.” To everyone who has supported me on my journey, I just want to say thanks.” This victory not only marked his fifth career Tour title but also symbolized a triumphant return to a sport that had tested him in more ways than one.
Conclusion: A Golfer’s Triumph Beyond the Scoreboard
Camilo Villegas’s win at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship transcends the boundaries of a golfing achievement. It’s a tale of resilience, love, and the ability to turn personal tragedy into a force for good. As the Spider-Man returns to the winner’s circle, it’s not just a victory for him but a heartening inspiration for all those facing challenges, both on and off the golf course.
