Tiger Woods believes Hideki Matsuyama’s Masters win will ‘impact the entire golf world’.
In the 85th edition of the tournament, Matsuyama recovered from a nervy start to claim what was his first golf major.
Getty
“Making Japan proud Hideki,” five-time Masters champion Woods tweeted.
“Congratulations on such a huge accomplishment for you and your country. This historical Masters win will impact the entire golf world.”
A decade after finishing as the leading amateur at Augusta National, Matsuyama is now a bona fide superstar in his native Japan, having become the first male player from the country to win a major championship.
Getty
The 29-year-old was cruising to victory until a two-shot swing on the 15th saw his lead cut in half, only for nearest rival Xander Schauffele to promptly find the water with his tee shot on the 16th.
A closing 73 gave Matsuyama a winning total of 10 under par and a one-shot victory over debutant Will Zalatoris, with Schauffele and 2015 champion Jordan Spieth two shots further back.
Getty
Getty
Matsuyama was presented with the Green Jacket by 2020 champion Dustin Johnson, who missed the cut in his title defence.
Jack Nicklaus, who won The Masters six times, also offered his congratulations.
“I want to send my heartfelt congratulations to Hideki Matsuyama for his Masters Tournament victory, and for being the first Japanese male golfer to win a major championship.
“I’m not only very happy and pleased for Hideki, but also the whole golfing world of Japan.”
And there was plenty of other kind words from his fellow pros.
Getty