Hideki Matsuyama began the PGA Tour season with a remarkable performance, breaking records at The Sentry event in Kapalua, Hawaii. This achievement marks a significant moment in Matsuyama’s career and the 2025 PGA Tour season.
Hideki Matsuyama delivered an extraordinary display of skill and precision to seize victory at The Sentry golf event held at the Kapalua Plantation Course. Over the course of the tournament, Matsuyama masterfully navigated 35 holes at birdie or better, ultimately concluding at 35-under par—a new record for the PGA Tour. His victory was sealed with a final birdie, earning him a three-shot triumph over Collin Morikawa.
The Japanese golfer’s emotional restraint throughout the event was notable; however, a genuine smile broke through when his caddie, Shota Hayafuji, joined him on the 18th green. Matsuyama’s winnings from the event amounted to $3.6 million, a testament to his exceptional performance that involved only one bogey in the final 59 holes.
Matsuyama, starting with a one-shot lead, extended his advantage by holing out from 107 yards for an eagle on the third hole. Collin Morikawa, who faced consecutive three-putts, found it challenging to keep pace, ultimately closing with a 67 to end three shots behind at 32-under 260.
The 32-year-old Matsuyama showcased resilience and clever strategy, using a center-shafted putter that he switched to just days before the event. Despite health issues before the tournament, this decision proved pivotal as he continued to play with unwavering confidence and precision.
Collin Morikawa acknowledged the difficulty of matching Matsuyama’s consistent play. Despite a strong performance, Morikawa conceded that Matsuyama’s edge was undeniable, particularly after Matsuyama secured another wedge to 4 feet on the 16th for birdie, effectively ensuring his victory.
Contributing to the competition’s intensity, other players also made significant impacts. Sungjae Im ended in third place with a closing round of 65, earning $1.36 million. Additionally, Taylor Pendrith made an extraordinary albatross with a 6-iron from 200 yards, a rare feat on the course since the tournament’s relocation to Kapalua in 1999.
Matsuyama’s triumph at the Sentry adds to his list of PGA Tour victories, positioning him in the top ranks of golf. His strategic gameplay and ability to maintain focus amid challenging conditions demonstrate why he remains a formidable competitor on the tour.
Hideki Matsuyama’s record-breaking performance at The Sentry sets a high bar for the new PGA Tour season. His combination of strategic play, adaptability, and skill underscores his status as one of the top players in the world, promising an exciting year ahead on the tour.
Source: News4jax
