Ludvig Åberg heads to Riviera Country Club this week as defending champion of the Genesis Invitational, looking to capture back-to-back titles at PGA Tour‘s prestigious event hosted by Tiger Woods.
The Swedish sensation’s victory last season featured a memorable back nine comeback that he described as surreal. Down in the tournament, Åberg mounted a charging finish with a series of birdies that propelled him to victory, including a birdie at the 13th hole that ignited his run toward the title.
“This kid’s game is pretty remarkable,” commentators noted during his winning performance, highlighting the consistency and precision Åberg demonstrated down the stretch.
Woods’ Endorsement Carries Weight
For Åberg, winning the Genesis Invitational held particular significance beyond the trophy. According to the 25-year-old, Woods watched him hit shots for approximately ten minutes straight during a PGA Tour event just weeks prior, making the subsequent victory at Woods’ tournament feel especially meaningful.
“He is the GOAT,” Åberg said when reflecting on what Woods means to him and professional golf. “Everything that he’s done—everyone who’s idolized him growing up, I was the same. I was watching Tiger videos on YouTube and watching every tournament that I could. He means a lot to our game, and to win this event is quite surreal.”
Åberg’s respect for Woods extends beyond admiration to genuine inspiration. The young Swede grew up consuming Woods’ tournaments and highlight reels, making his victory at a tournament bearing Woods’ name and vision particularly resonant.
Title Defense Begins This Week
As Åberg prepares to defend his Genesis Invitational crown, he faces the challenge that confronts all defending champions: maintaining momentum while opponents arrive hungry to dethrone the incumbent. His back nine heroics from last year demonstrated the mental fortitude and shot-making ability required to win at the highest level of professional golf.
The Genesis Invitational continues to draw the game’s elite competitors to Riviera, ensuring a field worthy of defending champion status. For Åberg, the opportunity to repeat represents both a chance to cement his emerging legacy and to honor the legacy of the man whose tournament he won.
A back nine comeback he won’t forget 🏆
Ludvig Åberg looks to defend his title this week @TheGenesisInv.
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— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 17, 2026
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