Novak and Coughlin Dominate to Win 2025 Grant Thornton Invitational

NAPLES, Fla. — Evaluation of the 2025 golf season cannot be complete without mentioning the breakout years of Andrew Novak and Lauren Coughlin. Their dominant victory at the Grant Thornton Invitational was not just a fun week in the sun; it was a coronation of their ascent into the game's upper echelon.

From Grinders to Champions

Both Novak and Coughlin have paid their dues. Novak, known for his grit on the Korn Ferry Tour, and Coughlin, who battled through Epson Tour grind, found a common language at Tiburón Golf Club: resilience.

"We both know what it's like to fight for every paycheck," Coughlin stated. "That shared background made us comfortable. We weren't afraid to grind out pars when we had to, but we knew when to attack."

Why They Won: The Perfect Complement

While their 28-under par total was a record, how they achieved it is more instructive for future mixed events:

1. Novak's Iron Play: Andrew Novak ranked top-5 on the PGA TOUR in approach proximity from 150-175 yards in 2025. This consistency allowed Coughlin to play aggressively off the tee.
2. Coughlin's Clutch Putting: Lauren Coughlin has developed into one of the LPGA's most reliable putters inside 10 feet. Whenever Novak left her with a tester for par or birdie, she delivered.

What This Means for 2026

For Novak, this win—coupled with his strong fall finish—puts him on the radar for the 2026 Presidents Cup. Captains love winners, and they especially love players who thrive in team formats. While he may not be an automatic qualifier yet, he has proven he has the temperament for the big stage.

For Coughlin, it solidifies her status as a Solheim Cup lock. The pressure of playing on national TV alongside PGA TOUR pros is the perfect crucible for international team competition.