Dunlap finished the year in the FedEx Cup playoffs and comes to the American Express ranked 32nd in the world. At the Sony Open in Hawaii last week, Dunlap tied for 10th. For Dunlap, returning to the scene of his breakthrough victory means reliving old memories.

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. — Nick Dunlap will return to the scene of one of the PGA Tour’s most remarkable stories when he defends his title at The American Express.

Nick Dunlap went from a college golfer having fun with his teammates at the University of Alabama to a surprise winner as an amateur at The American Express in January to turning pro in February and winning another PGA event in July.