The GSS Round Up – Matt Fitzpatrick takes the US Open Victory
Matt Fitzpatrick has emerged a force to be reckoned with to claim his first major at The US Open. Finishing 6 under par and 1 shot clear of the chasing pack, after a final round of 68; Fitzpatrick can now count himself among the elite company of Major Champions! Fitzpatrick’s win wasn’t without drama either!
Entering the final round 1 shot clear, Fitzpatrick held the lead with the ever consistent Zalatoris. The chasing pack was daunting to say the least. The group within striking distance included Scheffler, McIlroy, and former world number 1, John Rahm. The final round saw Rory and Rahmbo fall off the pace but world number 1 Scheffler took the lead with 4 birdies in the first 6 holes! Answering with birdies of his own Fitzpatrick managed to battle back. The leaders provided birdies and bogeys aplenty to add to the drama but it all came down to the 18th hole.
Fitzpatrick found the sand to the left of the fairway and this was no standard bunker shot. A devilish lip meant imagination was required. Opening the face and setting up for a ludicrous fade was Fitzpatrick’s only option. His escape was brilliant and a two-putt par meant Zalatoris required a birdie to force a playoff. The Texan was unable to convert and the Englishman took the win.
Fitzpatrick’s new found swing speed, courtesy of The Stack, was the talking point after the win. His normally modest driving distance has been replaced by 290 yard carries which helped to contend with this 7200+ yard monster of a course. Fitzpatrick said that this win was “what you grow up dreaming of”. Having won the US Amateur here almost 10 years ago Fitzy is “hoping all future PGA events will be held” at The Country Club. Even though this won’t be happening, we are sure we will see more wins from the Englishman!
Congratulations Matt Fitzpatrick! Check out the highlights here.