Japanese golf star Hideki Matsuyama made history at the Genesis Invitational by setting a new record for the lowest closing round by a winner at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles, California. Matsuyama's impressive comeback from behind, with a stunning 9-under 62, secured him his ninth victory on the PGA Tour, surpassing the previous record held by K.J. Choi of South Korea for the most wins by an Asian-born player.
Finishing at 17-under 267, Matsuyama clinched a three-shot win over runners-up Will Zalatoris and Luke List. This victory marks Matsuyama's first PGA Tour win since the Sony Open two years ago. The accomplishment was particularly meaningful for Matsuyama, who received a congratulatory text from Shigeki Maruyama, a fellow Japanese golfer, who had once discussed the potential of becoming the most successful Asian player on the PGA Tour.
Going into the final round, Patrick Cantlay held a two-shot lead but struggled to maintain control of his game. His performance paved the way for Matsuyama's remarkable surge to the top. Matsuyama's clutch shots, including a spectacular approach on the 15th hole and a near-perfect shot on the par-3 16th, highlighted his exceptional skill and composure under pressure.
Matsuyama attributed his recent success to playing without worries, following a challenging period marked by neck and back injuries in 2020. The victory earned him a substantial $4 million prize from the event's $20 million purse and propelled him to the 20th spot in the world rankings. With the major season ahead, Matsuyama's impressive record of 18 wins worldwide positions him as a formidable contender in the competitive golf landscape.
This triumph adds to Matsuyama's legacy, which includes victories on both the PGA Tour and the Japan Golf Tour, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the world of golf. His performance at the Genesis Invitational not only secured his place in golf history but also served as a testament to his resilience and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
