Team Richards delivered a stunning comeback to win the second PGA Tour Creator Classic of the year after a dramatic sudden-death playoff at the historic Philadelphia Cricket Club on May 7, 2025.
After a nightmare start that saw them triple-bogey the 12th hole and fall to six-over-par just three holes in, Josh Richards, alongside teammates Brad Dalke and Erik Anders Lang, managed a remarkable turnaround. Their persistence paid off as they clawed back to tie at the top after regulation play and overcame Team Brownlee in a playoff to clinch the title.
A Unique Competitive Format
The Creator Classic spotlighted a nine-hole alternate shot competition among teams of golf influencers and digital personalities. The format emphasized teamwork, as players alternated shots rather than holes. The back nine of the Philadelphia Cricket Club, also hosting the 2025 Truist Championship, provided a challenging stage.
- 4 three-player teams participated
- Players included social media personalities and golf creators
- Alternate shot format required strong chemistry among teammates
The Playoff Drama
Team Brownlee, featuring Marques Brownlee, Sean Walsh, and Sabrina Andolpho, dominated early. Despite a fortuitous shot from Andolpho that bounced out of a creek, their momentum slowed. On the 18th playoff hole, they collapsed with wayward shots and a triple bogey.
This opened the door for Team Richards. Brad Dalke’s steady form got them into position, and Erik Anders Lang sank the decisive bogey putt — proving sometimes a bogey is all that’s needed under pressure. “We were down, out of rhythm, and then somehow found a way,” said Richards afterward.
The Road to the Final
Their journey included a fierce three-way chip-off against Team Lowry and Team Toney — also finishing at +8. Dalke’s chip to within a foot of the hole secured their playoff berth, eliminating big internet names, including Paige Spiranac and Tyler Toney (Dude Perfect), whose highlight chip-in birdie on 16 wasn’t enough.
Final Thoughts
The Creator Classic continues to evolve as a compelling addition to the PGA Tour. By blending content-driven personalities with traditional competition, it connects with golf’s younger audience while keeping seasoned fans engaged. According to Brad Dalke, “Even after the triple bogey, we reminded ourselves it’s never over in golf.”
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