Joel Girrbach was thrilled with his top-ten finish at his national open during the 2026 Omega European Masters in Crans Montana.
The 33-year-old was the sole Swiss player to make the weekend at Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club and had an outside chance of a maiden DP World Tour title when starting his final round six adrift of overnight leader Paul Casey.
A brilliant 65, which started with a bogey before an eagle at the seventh and four more birdies, saw him finish three off the pace at 15 under as Thriston Lawrence edged out Casey on the fourth extra hole of a play-off to join Seve Ballesteros as the only three-time winners of this event since 1972.
For Girrbach, his share of ninth means he jumps up to 92nd in the Race to Dubai Rankings delivered by DP World in his bid to keep hold of his playing rights for the 2027 campaign.
"Yeah, a bit of a rough start. Shaky finish as well, in between really good, but I take it," he said.
"I think it was a lovely day. Game was solid, like I said, shaky finish, but I take it. 65 is good on Sunday.
"The putter in the hand, but I take it as well. It was a good start to get my round going. After that, two more birdies, and then I was pretty much in the flow. After that, a lot of opportunities, but all in all, very happy.
"Yeah, bit of both. There were definitely some nerves in the beginning, but in the end, I just tried to enjoy it, and the support was unbelievable again. So thanks to everyone, it's just amazing to have a tournament like this at home.
"It was definitely a big move to the right direction again. I need these points. There's still a lot to play for and big events coming up, but I would say that's a good start."
