Retired NHL star Joe Pavelski appears to be enjoying his time on the golf course. Approximately one year after concluding his successful National Hockey League career, Pavelski claimed victory in grand style at the highly anticipated American Century Championship on Sunday.
Pavelski, who ended his 18-season tenure in the NHL, secured his win at the American Century Championship with a dramatic walk-off eagle putt, culminating a truly dominant performance throughout the tournament.
This marked Pavelski`s ninth appearance at the American Century Championship, and it proved to be the turning point for a win. After successfully sinking the challenging final putt, Pavelski shared a moment of celebration with his caddie before embracing his family.
Former MLB pitcher John Smoltz finished as the runner-up, among a group of elite athletes Pavelski surpassed at the top of the leaderboard. The field included country music artist Jake Owen in third place, former professional soccer player Taylor Twellman finishing fourth, and NBA superstar Stephen Curry placing fifth.
Despite this notable golf achievement, Pavelski`s collection of golf trophies still has significant ground to cover to rival his impressive career accomplishments in the NHL. Over 1,332 games, a record for any American-born player, Pavelski recorded a remarkable 476 goals and 592 assists. He was selected as an All-Star four times and earned second-team All-Star honors in 2014.
The 2025 American Century Championship also delivered several other memorable moments for spectators. Beyond Pavelski`s winning putt, highlights included 49ers tight end George Kittle delivering some `sweet chin music` gestures towards The Miz on the tee box and Phillies legend Jimmy Rollins achieving a hole-in-one which earned him a boat.
