CNN  — 

When Michael Thompson won his first PGA Tour event in 2013, he might not have expected to wait seven years for his second.

But the 2,702-day wait made Sunday’s victory at the 3M Open all the sweeter as the 35-year-old held his nerve to win by two strokes.

The tournament in Minneapolis, US, was held behind closed doors amid the coronavirus pandemic, meaning an emotional Thompson was unable to share his special moment with his family.

“It has been a long time,” Thompson said after his round of four-under 67 at TPC Twin Cities.

“I’m really sad my wife and kids aren’t here to celebrate this with me. I can’t wait to see them. Babe, I love you.”

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Michael Thompson celebrates after winning the 3M Open in Minnesota, US.

‘So unbelievable’

Thompson was ranked as the world No. 218 ahead of the tournament after years of fighting to keep his professional card.

But now, after his first win in 167 starts, he can look forward to some job security for the next two years – including qualification into next month’s PGA Championship in San Francisco.

“That’s what makes this game so unbelievable is that we have to play for our job every year,” he said.

“To know that I have security for two more years and to get into all those tournaments. It’s just a huge bonus. I’ll have to get my mind right for sweating next week, but oh man, it’s just so exciting.”

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland celebrates with the FedExCup trophy after winning during the final round of the TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club on August 25, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Rory McIlroy on 2019 PGA Tour Championship win
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Thompson shared the lead going into the final round on Sunday but continued his impressive form to emerge the champion, sinking a 12-foot putt on the 18th hole to seal the win.

Thompson’s only after victory came at the Honda Classic in 2013 but he also finished as runner up at the U.S. Open in 2012.

As a result of the win, Thompson has moved up to No. 99 in golf’s world rankings.