Kurt Kitayama Wins the 2025 3M Open: Insight Into The Winning Stats

Kurt Kitayama celebrates with the trophy after winning the 3M Open; July 27, 2025; Blaine, MinnesotaMatt Krohn-Imagn Images

Kurt Kitayama captured his second PGA Tour title at the 2025 3M Open, finishing at 23-under-par to edge out Sam Stevens by just one shot. What made this win even more impressive was how he came from behind, barely making the cut after two rounds, and then dominating the weekend with rounds of 60 and 65.

A Big Weekend Turnaround

After two average opening rounds, Kitayama found himself eight shots behind the lead going into Saturday. But his third-round 60, which tied the course record at TPC Twin Cities, changed everything. That round included eight birdies and an eagle, launching him straight into contention.

On Sunday, he kept the momentum going by birdieing 6 of his first 8 holes, taking early control of the final round. Though a bogey on the 17th hole added late drama, the third time he’d bogeyed that hole during the week - he held on with a steady finish on 18, including a clutch bunker shot and two-putt.

Winning Stats

What stood out in Kitayama’s game this week was his iron play. He gained over 2.2 strokes on approach shots, meaning his second shots into greens were much better than most of the field. That helped him hit 83% of greens in regulation, giving him plenty of birdie chances throughout the week.

Interestingly, he didn’t rely heavily on putting to win - he gained just 0.2 strokes putting, which is quite low for a tournament winner. This shows that it was his ball-striking, not a hot putter, that made the difference.

He also handled the tee shots well, averaging 305 yards in driving distance while keeping the ball in play with 61% driving accuracy. Not overly aggressive, just solid, smart golf off the tee that set him up for good approach shots.

Adding to the story, Kitayama had his older brother Daniel on the bag as his caddie. The duo stayed calm under pressure, made smart decisions, and clearly worked well together, a big emotional boost during crunch time.

Why This Win Matters

Kitayama’s win moved him up the FedExCup standings from 110th to around 53rd, securing his place in the playoffs with just one event left in the regular season.

Kurt Kitayama's Key Stats from the win

Score = -23

Par 3 = +4

Par 4 = -17

Par 5 = -10

SG Total = +3.50

SG Tee = +0.59

SG App = +2.29

SG ARG = +0.42

SG Putt = +0.20

Driving Distance = 305Y

Driving Accuracy = 61%

GIR = 83%