First-time Tour winner's unique fishing celebration goes viral

Jackson Koivun, a 21-year-old American golfer, clinched his first PGA Tour victory at the 2026 3M Open held at TPC Twin Cities. However, his celebration of this significant achievement proved to be as unique as the win itself. Instead of the usual team hugs or champagne showers, Koivun chose to celebrate his first major title by going fishing in the pond adjacent to the 18th hole – a spot that had given him considerable trouble throughout the tournament.

Over the first two rounds of the 3M Open, the pond guarding the par-5 18th hole had been a persistent challenge for the young pro. In the opening round, his drive narrowly avoided the water, forcing him to salvage par from a difficult lie in the right rough near the water's edge. On Friday, his tee shot at the 18th did find the pond, resulting in a penalty stroke and a bogey-6. Although Koivun managed to hit the 18th fairway on Saturday, leading to a closing eagle that secured him a substantial 54-hole lead, the memories of his previous struggles on that hole lingered on Sunday as the tournament hung in the balance.

"I hadn't particularly played 18 well except for yesterday, hadn't hit the best drives. I didn't really hit the best drive today, but it worked out. I think once I got over that drive on 18 and got it down there in the fairway, we definitely felt a little less pressure," Koivun admitted during his press conference on Sunday evening. He further explained that while he navigated the 18th tee shot unscathed in the final round, the full wave of emotions only crashed down after he sank his final putt. "It never really feels like you’re going to win until you make the putt and that’s kind of when all the emotions come crashing down on you. I think I did a really good job this week of staying level headed, but I felt like that was an appropriate time to show some emotions."

One of Koivun's first acts after officially securing his win was to embrace his father, who was in attendance. His mother, unfortunately, could not make it from North Carolina. "I’ve got so much thanks for my parents for everything they’ve done for me over these 21 years. I really wish my mom could be here today, but she’s still back in North Carolina and I’m sure I’ll see her soon. I think she’s coming next week. Having my dad there and giving him a hug at the end of the day was probably the best feeling," Koivun shared. Shortly thereafter, he connected with his mother via video call. "She was crying," Koivun said, describing the conversation. "I was trying to make out a little bit of what she said, but she kept saying how proud she was. Those two are just, they’re my rocks."

When asked about his celebration plans following his press conference, Koivun responded, "Not quite sure yet, but I’m sure we’ll find something to do." And find something to do he did. Shortly after his presser concluded, he was handed a fishing rod and headed over to the pond on the 18th hole that had tested him all week. Cameras were there to capture him casting into the pond as the moon rose over TPC Twin Cities’ closing hole, reflecting on the water's surface. Reports suggest there are "No Fishing" signs on the course, implying a special exception for 3M Open winners. For the bass anglers out there, it appeared Koivun was using a chatterbait without a trailer, though his exact lure choice remains unconfirmed.

This unconventional celebration quickly captured attention on social media, with videos of Koivun fishing going viral. Spectators and fellow golfers alike praised the young champion's originality and genuine emotion. The victory at the 3M Open marks a significant milestone in Jackson Koivun's career, solidifying his status as a rising star in professional golf. His ability to handle pressure and find unique ways to express joy makes him one of the most compelling young talents on the PGA Tour.