Rafael Campos has been welcomed in his native Puerto Rico as a true hero. An unforgettable celebration, reserved for those who achieve feats that elevate the name of the island. Following his victory at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, Campos made history by becoming the first Puerto Rican to win a PGA Tour tournament since 1979. This monumental achievement was celebrated in grand style by golf fans, Olympic athletes, sponsors, and prominent figures in sports and entertainment.
The event took place at the iconic DISTRITO T-Mobile, a venue for major celebrations on the island, such as the annual broadcast of Dick Clark’s Rockin’ Eve. The activity included performances of folk dances, traditional cuisine, and the screening of the Emmy-winning documentary series Puerto Rico Swing, which narrates Campos’s inspiring journey.
Thousands of people responded to the call to honour the charismatic golfer. Among the notable attendees were former NBA player and champion with the Dallas Mavericks, José Juan Barea, and the actor from the HBO Prison Break series, Amaury Nolasco, a close friend of Campos. Nolasco travelled from Los Angeles to join the celebration and surprised the golfer on stage with an emotional message in front of thousands of attendees. “This celebration is for Rafa and for Puerto Rico. Another achievement for our people. We all remember where we were when Tito Trinidad won or when Dayanara Torres was crowned Miss Universe. Now we will always remember where we were when Rafa Campos triumphed in the PGA Tour. That day we all cried with joy. I am proud to call him my friend,” he said.
Another great tribute came from the Baseball Hall of Fame member in Cooperstown and former Texas Rangers player, Iván ‘Pudge’ Rodríguez, who sent a special message: “Rafa, I congratulate you on this great triumph. You deserve it all and more. I wish you much success in the next season.”
Puerto Rican singer Luis Fonsi, known worldwide for his hit Despacito, also sent a message to the golfer during the event: “We celebrate this great victory with you. You have worked so hard, and you know I am your fan. Enjoy this achievement to the fullest; we are always with you. I am sure the best is yet to come.”
Looking to the future, Rafa Campos will start the year in Hawaii, where he will compete from January 2 to 5, 2025, at The Sentry, kicking off a new season as a PGA Tour champion. “I thank all the people who made this event possible and those who showed me so much love and blessings. Without a doubt, my country, my daughter, and my family were the driving force behind this first championship. I will continue to work hard to achieve many more,” stated Rafa Campos at the close of the event.
