Nico Echavarria capitalized on Shane Lowry’s end at the Cognizant Classic

Nico Echavarria secured his third career PGA Tour victory Sunday at the Cognizant Classic, kicking off the 2026 Florida swing. Having previously won in 2023 and 2024 before a winless 2025, Echavarria finally succeeded in his fourth appearance at this venue. His disciplined play was decisive; he carded the fewest bogeys in the field, making only three errors, all occurring during round two. Minimizing damage proved essential for winning trophies.

Shane Lowry appeared poised for victory, boasting a three-stroke lead at 19-under with three holes remaining. However, a disastrous finish featuring back-to-back double bogeys surrendered the title, opening the door for Echavarria. Elsewhere, former Florida Gator Ricky Castillo impressed again, logging his third top-10 result in only 34 career starts. Attention now shifts to the Arnold Palmer Invitational. This next Signature Event welcomes Justin Thomas, who joins the field to make his first competitive start of the 2026 PGA Tour season.