Historic Performance by Matsuyama

KAPALUA, Hawaii (AP) – Hideki Matsuyama kicked off the new PGA TOUR season with a historic performance on Sunday, claiming victory at The Sentry tournament and setting a new record for the lowest total score to par for 72 holes. Matsuyama closed the tournament with an impressive 8-under 65, finishing three shots ahead of Collin Morikawa and posting a jaw-dropping score of 35-under 257. This feat eclipses the previous record of 34-under par set by Cameron Smith last year.

Remarkable Achievements

Adding to his remarkable achievement, Matsuyama recorded an astounding 35 birdies or better throughout the tournament, surpassing the previous best shared by Cameron Smith and Sungjae Im. This victory marks Matsuyama's 11th career title on the PGA TOUR and his third win in the last ten months, showcasing his skill against some of the toughest competition in golf.

A Competitive Final Round

"The Plantation Course sets the stage for scoring here, especially when the winds are calm," said runner-up Morikawa, who tried to keep pace but fell short after a couple of costly mistakes early in the round. Matsuyama maintained his lead from the start, and it was his eagle on the third hole that truly set the tone for the day. Sinking a sand wedge from 107 yards, the ball excitedly dropped into the hole, igniting the crowd at Kapalua.

Morikawa's Efforts

Despite Morikawa's efforts, which included closing the gap with birdies on the 14th and 15th holes, Matsuyama's consistent play kept him firmly in control. By the time he drilled a wedge to four feet on hole 16 for another birdie, it was clear that he was sealing his win. Both players birdied the 18th, with Morikawa finishing at 67.

High-Stakes Competition

The Sentry tournament is not just any event; it features a whopping $20 million purse, making it a high-stakes competition on the PGA TOUR. Matsuyama's impressive performance earned him a prize of $3.6 million, boosting his career earnings beyond $60 million.

Taylor Pendrith's Spectacular Shot

In a remarkable twist, Taylor Pendrith pulled off one of the most spectacular shots of the tournament, making an albatross by holing out a 6-iron from 200 yards on the par-5 fifth hole. This was particularly noteworthy as it was the first albatross recorded at The Plantation Course since the tournament was relocated to Kapalua in 1999.

Matsuyama's Historic Distinction

Matsuyama now holds the distinction of being the seventh player in history to win both Hawaii tournaments on the PGA TOUR schedule, and he aims to become the only player since Justin Thomas in 2017 and Ernie Els in 2003 to win both in the same year. Up next for him is the Sony Open in Hawaii, a tournament he previously won three years ago.

The Road Ahead

With such a sensational start to the PGA TOUR season, golf fans are left wondering: can anyone stop Matsuyama's momentum as he heads into upcoming tournaments? The excitement is palpable, and the stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling year for the sport!