Padraig Harrington blames 'lifelong problem' after blowing lead

May 27, 2025

Padraig Harrington cursed old ghosts as he missed a golden opportunity to win the Senior PGA Championship.

Harrington dropped crucial shots heading towards the clubhouse on Sunday to finish one behind eventual winner Angel Cabrera.

The 53-year-old looked on course for his first major win of the year when he sank a long-range birdie on the 14th.

However, Harrington hit a big hook on the 15th tee that contributed to a double bogey. Cabrera’s birdie ensured a three-shot swing before a par on the par-5 16th followed.

The Irishman then three-putted on the 18th green for bogey to miss out on the title by one shot. He had to settle for second place and tied with Thomas Bjorn.

Padraig Harrington blames carelessness for late collapse

The three-time major winner said his career has been plagued by carelessness after his late collapse.

He pinpointed the error made on the 15th as the turning point in the competition and didn’t mince his words. Harrington said: “I’ve had a lifelong problem with getting confident and cocky and I did on the 15 tee box.

“It was such a simple tee shot, a five wood – a little draw down there – and I just totally didn’t get into it enough and then panicked at the last moment and hit a big hook.

“It’s always plagued me my whole life since I’ve been a kid. I just get overconfident and just don’t…I’d be much better off if I got to the 15th hole and there was water everywhere, I probably would’ve done a better job.

“I just sometimes – it follows me around – that I can get overconfident. If I had the ability to do what I say I’d be the best player in the world but unfortunately I don’t.

“I lost a tournament when I was 18 years of age back – the Irish Youth – and I did the exact same thing. Two ahead with three to play and relaxed. I’m much better off with nerves and tension.”

Harrington’s second place meant he picked up a cheque for $378,000.

Angel Cabrera wins another senior major following prison release

Angel Cabrera was released from jail on parole following a 20-month stint in August 2023.

He was found guilty in 2021 of numerous charges that included assault, theft and illegal intimidation against former girlfriends.

The victory was his second major in a week following last week’s victory at the Regions Tradition in Alabama.

He told NBC: “I’m extremely happy after winning two tournaments in a row, and also three tournaments within a year.

“I’m extremely happy, especially after everything that happened.

“I didn’t know that it was going to happen this quickly, winning two tournaments in a row, especially with all these great players around this tour. I feel very emotional and proud.”