Bubba Watson Earns the Green Jacket for the Second Time in Three Years

Yesterday Bubba Watson joined an elite group of 17 golfers to have won the Masters two times.  Unlike his first victory in 2012 there was no play-off scenario, just a solid succession of good rounds that led the American to a 3-stroke victory.
 
Stating afterwards, “The first one I felt I lucked into.”  Watson added, “A lot of hard work and determination went into this one.”
 
A stellar round of 69 on Sunday helped give the 35-year-old an 8-under 280 finish.  After a back and forth battle with the young Jordan Spieth, Watson was able to hold his nerve in the final round.  Securing his 5th PGA Tour win and his second success at Augusta.
 
“A small-town guy named Bubba now has two green jackets,” he said.  “It’s pretty cool.”
 
What else was cool about the first major of 2014?  The evident rise of the young star, Spieth.  The 20-year-old’s first Masters appearance was an impressive show as he battled to become the youngest winner of the Green Jacket.  While he lost it a bit on the last day, the incredible strength and poise he exhibited throughout the weekend can’t be ignored.
 
With Rory McIlroy even commenting on the fine performance.  Stating, “He plays like he’s been out here for a long time.”
 
Though his quest for major success came up short, he tied for second with Jonas Blixt at 5-under, Spieth should be more than happy with his first trip to Augusta.
 
“It's definitely mixed emotions,” said Spieth.  “It was very close on the back nine.  I hit a lot of putts where I wanted to but they didn't go in.  To play this course all week without worse than a bogey is something I'm proud of.”