Vinay Kumar Yadav Claims First Title at PGTI NexGen 2026

In an exciting finish at the PGTI NexGen 2026, Vinay Kumar Yadav from Delhi claimed his first professional title by defeating 15-year-old Arjunveer Shishir in a playoff. Both players finished the regulation rounds tied at three-under 213, leading to a tense playoff on the Par-5 18th hole. Vinay's victory not only earned him a cash prize but also boosted his ranking in the PGTI NexGen Order of Merit. This tournament aims to enhance opportunities for golfers across India, especially in smaller cities. Vinay's reflections on his journey highlight the importance of coaching and mental focus in achieving success.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 19, 2026, 19:53 IST

Vinay Kumar Yadav's Triumph

Vinay Kumar Yadav from Delhi secured his first professional title by defeating 15-year-old Arjunveer Shishir from Chandigarh in a playoff at the Rs 25 lakh PGTI NexGen 2026 tournament held at the Golden Greens Golf and Country Club in Gurugram.

The 30-year-old golfer, who finished the first two rounds with scores of 72 and 70, shot a one-under 71 in the final round. This performance allowed him to tie for the lead with Arjunveer, who had scores of 71, 70, and 72, both ending the 54 holes at three-under 213.

Playoff Details

Arjunveer, the youngest competitor in the tournament, climbed to the top of the leaderboard on the third day with an even-par 72. The playoff took place on the Par-5 18th hole, where Vinay emerged victorious after two playoff holes, earning a prize of Rs 3,17,875 and moving into fourth place in the 2026 PGTI NexGen Order of Merit.

Lakshya Nagar and Siddharth Semwal, who was the overnight leader, finished tied for third place with scores of two-under 214.

About the PGTI NexGen Tour

The PGTI NexGen Tour was initiated last year to provide equal opportunities for professional golfers in India and to enhance the competitive landscape of Indian golf. The tour aims to promote the sport in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, broadening its reach across the nation.

Final Round Insights

In the final round, Vinay faced challenges with a couple of bogeys and a double-bogey on the front nine, which overshadowed his four birdies. However, he regained his focus on the back nine, making a crucial birdie on the 11th hole to tie with Arjunveer for the playoff.

Arjunveer's steady performance included two birdies and two bogeys in his final round. Both players made par on the first playoff hole, but Vinay's consistent hitting and putting on the second playoff hole secured his victory, while Arjunveer struggled with a bogey.

Vinay's Reflections

Expressing his joy, Vinay stated, "Winning my first professional title is a dream come true. I owe a lot to my coach, Nonita Lal Qureshi, for her guidance since I began training with her last November. My putting has significantly improved over the past few months. I also want to thank my father for his unwavering support during tough times."

He added, "After a challenging front nine, I maintained my focus, knowing I could capitalize on the Par-5s on the back nine. My strategy in the playoff was to find the fairway and reach the green in two shots, which I accomplished. This victory boosts my confidence for the main tour."

Vinay noted that all aspects of his game came together during the tournament, and the narrow layout of Golden Greens, similar to his home course at Delhi Golf Club, played to his advantage.