In a striking display of skill and precision, Hideki Matsuyama commenced the PGA Tour season with a record-breaking victory at the Kapalua Plantation Course in Hawaii. His performance not only secured him a first-place finish but also etched his name into the record books, setting new benchmarks in the process.
Matsuyama’s triumph at The Sentry event is notable for the incredible scores he achieved. With 35 holes at birdie or better, the Japanese golfer finished with a score of 35-under par, both figures setting new records for the PGA Tour. On the course that saw little to no wind, Matsuyama showcased his relentless focus and skill over four days, only making a single bogey in his final 59 holes of play.
During the final round, Matsuyama seized an early lead by holing out from 107 yards on the third hole for an eagle. His lead widened when competitor Collin Morikawa stumbled with consecutive three-putts. Matsuyama’s steady performance was augmented by a strategic change; he switched to a more center-shafted putter, a decision made shortly before the tournament began. This adjustment seemed to pay off, as he closed with an 8-under 65 in the final round, solidifying his win with a three-shot margin over Morikawa and affirming his dominance on the course.
Matsuyama’s winning form continued despite minimal practice before the event due to health issues, including mouth sores. This victory marks his 11th career triumph and adds $3.6 million to his earnings, pushing his career total beyond $60 million. Matsuyama’s accomplishment also propels him to fifth in the world rankings, highlighting his consistency against tough competitors.
Reflecting on his performance, Matsuyama expressed surprise at breaking the 34-under record for 72 holes, set by Cameron Smith. His remarkable round at Kapalua concluded with a wedge shot to within four feet for a birdie on the 16th hole, effectively sealing his victory. Morikawa, who finished three shots behind at 32-under, acknowledged Matsuyama’s exceptional play, especially during critical moments of the tournament.
Another notable highlight was Taylor Pendrith’s albatross on the par-5 fifth hole, achieved with a 6-iron from 200 yards—a first since the event’s relocation to Kapalua in 1999. Matsuyama’s win places him among elite company, being the seventh golfer to win both Hawaiian events in a PGA Tour season. With the Sony Open approaching, where he previously won three years ago, Matsuyama has the chance to further cement his legacy in golf.
Hideki Matsuyama’s record-setting performance at Kapalua not only marks a personal triumph but also underscores his growing influence in the world of golf. As the season unfolds, Matsuyama’s recent victory signals that he remains a formidable force, poised to capitalize on his current form.
Source: Local10
