CROMWELL, Conn. — Hunter Mahan earned his first PGA Tour victory yesterday, winning the Travelers Championship in a playoff a year after finishing second.

Mahan, in his fourth year on Tour, hit a 2-foot birdie putt on the first playoff hole to beat 40-year-old journeyman Jay Williamson.

Mahan, 25, had just one other top-10 finish this year, tying for fifth at the Shell Houston Open in April. But he plays this tournament well, posting one of his two career second-place finishes.

His 62 on Thursday was one shot off the course record, and his 71 on Friday was his first round out of the 60s in this tournament since he shot a 72 during the third round in 2005.

“After that 62, I felt it almost came out of nowhere. … I felt like I could play good here, I know I can win.”

He shot a 65 Sunday. Trailing by a stroke on the final hole, he hit a 144-yard approach to within 7 feet. After Williamson missed a 12-footer for birdie, Mahan put his in the back of the cup, pumping his fist and sending the pair back to the tee.

Mahan then hit his 134-yard approach on the first playoff hole within 2 feet.

“I just kept plugging away,” he said. “Jay gave me a little opening on 18 and I’m glad I made it.”

Williamson was just 7 feet away, but pushed it right.