[Winners Club] Leighton Seals Victory with Long Drives

by Roh Woolae

Published 12 May.2026 00:20(KST)

Victory at the Signature Truist Championship
Averages 330 Yards Off the Tee with Powerful Drives
Equipped with the Ping G440 K for Both Forgiveness and Distance

Christopher Leighton (Norway) has now conquered the American stage as well.

On May 10 (local time), he clinched a two-stroke victory at the Truist Championship, a PGA Tour Signature Event with a total prize purse of $20 million, held at Quail Hollow Club (par 71) in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Christopher Keetan is teeing off on the 16th hole of the 4th round at the Truist Championship. Charlotte=AFP Yonhap News Photo

Despite making two bogeys in the final round, he carded four birdies to finish two under par. He celebrated his first career victory in just his 15th PGA Tour appearance. The winner's prize was $3.6 million (approximately 5.3 billion won).

Born in 1998, Leighton is a young player at 28 years old this year. He has a unique background, having played both golf and soccer in his youth. He recorded two wins on the DP World Tour and one win on the Sunshine Tour. While he had not previously made a strong impression on the PGA Tour, he showcased his potential at this tournament.

On the final day of the tournament, Leighton displayed his powerful long drives, averaging 330 yards with his driver. Notably, he collected two birdies on the three par-5 holes. Equipped with the Ping G440 K driver, which combines forgiveness and distance, he delivered a standout performance at this premier event.

In his post-victory interview, Leighton exclaimed, "I never expected to win this quickly. I can't believe it. My dream has come true."