When Matt Fitzpatrick sized up his approach from a bunker left of the 18th fairway on Sunday in the U.S. Open, a playoff loomed, as it usually does at The Country Club. Will Zalatoris and Matt Fitzpatrick both had the rounds of the day on Saturday, resulting in a fantastic leaderboard going into the final round, and they were rewarded with the co-lead after 54 holes. Matt Fitzpatrick won the U.S. Open this weekend at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts, the first crucial victory of his career.
Fitzpatrick and Will Zalatoris were tied for first place going into the final round. The two fought back and forth throughout the round, putting on a ball-striking show for the Boston fans. Over the last six months, Zalatoris and Fitzpatrick have played as well as anybody in the world. Their outstanding play has been recognized at The Country Club. Matt Fitzpatrick won the tournament after shooting 68-70-68-68 for a six-under 284 total. By one stroke, he defeated World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and Will Zalatoris.
The Glorious Win of Fitzpatrick
Zalatoris had a 15-foot birdie to force a playoff after displaying great tenacity during an arduous struggle at Brookline. He was already on his knees as the putt went over the edge of the cup on the left side. He finished second for the third time in the previous seven majors, losing in a playoff to Justin Thomas at the PGA Championship last month.
Fitzpatrick became the first golf player after Graeme McDowell in 2010 to ever win the U.S. Open on the PGA Tour. It required a nice break, a classic shot, and a lot of courage to get to the finish line. Nevertheless, the party had a familiar feel to it. Fitzpatrick’s parents and younger brother, Alex, who caddied for him in the Amateur, exchanged heartfelt embraces. The winner received $3.15 million in addition to the title of being a champion, something that cannot be purchased with money.
Fitzpatrick meticulously charts his shots and maintains track of them all to see what needs to be improved. Over the last two years, he has prioritized speed in his swing, giving him the stature and confidence to compete with anybody.