He became the first three-time Florida Open champion since Don Bisplinghoff in 1962. Deacon’s prior wins were in 2017 and 2020. 

 

Entering the final round two shots off the lead at the 79th Florida Open, Deacon started off the final 18-holes hot with an eagle en route to bogey-free 5-under final 10 holes for a 67 (-5). The round prior, he turned in a bogey-free 65 (-7). Across his 54-holes, he made 18 birdies, 32 pars, an eagle and only three bogeys.

 

After opening with six consecutive pars, an unfortunate break on the 8th hole resulted in a double bogey. Undeterred, Deacon battled back, carding birdies on three of the next five holes to thrust himself back into contention. His standout moment came on the drivable 15th, where he reached the green with his tee shot, leaving himself 20 feet and calmly two-putting for birdie. He then made a clutch up-and-down on the 17th before sticking a wedge to three feet on the 18th and making the birdie putt to take the lead in the clubhouse.

 

Deacon would find himself tied with Joseph Pagdin, who he coached at UF from 2020-24 at 16-under. Then in the playoff, both players opted for irons off the tee. Deacon found the fairway, while Pagdin’s shot drifted into the left penalty area. Sensing the opportunity, Deacon layed up before sticking his approach to 17 feet and making the birdie putt to clinch the trifecta.