It seems Joe Pavelski has dedicated his post-NHL life to perfecting his golf swing. Approximately a year after retiring from professional hockey, Pavelski emerged victorious at the prestigious American Century Championship in dramatic fashion on Sunday.
Pavelski, who concluded his illustrious 18-season NHL career, secured his American Century Championship title with a remarkable eagle putt on the final hole, capping off an impressive performance.
This year marked Pavelski’s ninth appearance at the American Century Championship, and it proved to be a triumphant one. After sinking the clutch putt, Pavelski celebrated with his caddie and shared the moment with his loved ones.
Veteran MLB pitcher John Smoltz finished as the runner-up, among a field of accomplished athletes that Pavelski outperformed to claim the top spot. Country music artist Jake Owen secured third place, former soccer star Taylor Twellman finished fourth, and NBA icon Stephen Curry rounded out the top five.
Despite this recent triumph, Pavelski still has ground to cover if he aspires for his collection of golf accolades to rival his accomplishments in the NHL. Over the course of 1,332 NHL games, the most played by any American-born player, Pavelski amassed 476 goals and 592 assists. He was a four-time NHL All-Star and earned a spot on the second All-Star team in 2014.
The 2025 American Century Championship was responsible for a few noteworthy moments. Beyond Pavelski’s climactic putt, 49ers tight end George Kittle delivered a wrestling-inspired move to The Miz on the tee box, and Phillies legend Jimmy Rollins achieved a hole-in-one, winning a boat in the process.
