RBC Heritage Victory for Matt Fitzpatrick Bolsters Europe's Ryder Cup Prospects

A caddie's work is never done... Billy Foster takes over as photographer to mark Fitzpatrick's latest win

Matt Fitzpatrick has played two Ryder Cups, has twice been on the losing team and has still to register a contribution to the European cause.

The recent victory of 28-year-old golfer Matt Fitzpatrick brought into question his previous struggles to clinch a PGA Tour title despite his considerable talent. Fitzpatrick, from Sheffield, won his first regular PGA Tour victory last Sunday, triumphing over two of America's finest players - Jordan Spieth and Patrick Cantlay - in a sudden-death play-off at the RBC Heritage. Fitzpatrick showcased patience and killer instinct throughout the tournament, traits that would be ideal for the Ryder Cup. Fitzpatrick held his nerve magnificently to win the tournament and was rewarded with a tartan jacket. The victory at Harbour Town was a career-high for Fitzpatrick, taking him to eighth in the world and 22nd in the FedEx Cup standings. The win, coming after a neck injury that undermined his early 2023 performances, also shows Fitzpatrick's growing maturity and deserved place in the top echelons of the world game. Fitzpatrick, who is now preparing for the Ryder Cup, aims to silence American chants and make a significant contribution to the European team.

Last Sunday, Matt Fitzpatrick clinched his first regular PGA Tour victory, defeating two of America's finest players, Jordan Spieth and Patrick Cantlay, in a sudden-death playoff at the RBC Heritage. Despite his impressive talent, Fitzpatrick's lack of success on the PGA Tour has been a curious anomaly. However, his victory last Sunday is a boost for Europe's Ryder Cup hopes, and his temperament seems well-suited for the biennial battle between Europe and the United States. Fitzpatrick held his nerve to beat both Spieth and Cantlay and conjured a sensational nine-iron approach shot to tap-in range for the winning birdie in the playoff. Fitzpatrick's patience and competitive mindset were critical factors that ensured he never got ahead of himself or panicked when Spieth opened a two-stroke lead. This win has taken Fitzpatrick to a career-high of number eight in the world and puts him on course for an appearance at the season-ending Tour Championship. Fitzpatrick's caddie, Billy Foster, believes that this victory is a massive shot in the arm for Fitzpatrick's confidence, especially after struggling with a neck problem that undermined his early 2023 performances. Fitzpatrick's success is also a sign of growing maturity and a demonstration that he deserves his place in the highest echelons of the world game. Before winning the US Open last year, Fitzpatrick was often overworked over majors and tried too hard to win one. He now understands the importance of being patient and letting things happen. Looking ahead, Fitzpatrick's aim will be to silence travelling chants of "U-S-A" in Rome this September. He has not had much success in European colors so far but is expected to play a significant role in the Ryder Cup. Captain Luke Donald will undoubtedly be thrilled to have him on his team, and Fitzpatrick can expect a much heavier workload. Surely, he will break that frustrating duck in Italy.

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