In Northern Ireland’s stunning Royal Portrush, Matt Fitzpatrick has risen from the depths of despair to co-lead the famed Open Championship, showcasing a remarkable transformation.

Fitzpatrick, 30, meticulously tracks every shot he takes, compiling an extensive database that he’s built over 15 years. This dedication helps him quickly identify patterns and pinpoint flaws in his game. And he’s all too familiar with what rock-bottom feels like.

Just 122 days ago, Fitzpatrick hit an all-time low, grappling with a frustrating slump that saw him struggle significantly through multiple tournaments. "It was really bad," he admitted, recalling a time when finding the ball's face during swings felt impossible. Following disheartening rounds at The Players Championship, where he posted a disastrous 78 and 72, Fitzpatrick knew he needed a change.

After parting ways with his long-time caddie Billy Foster, Fitzpatrick had a rough start with his new caddie, Dan Parratt, which only deepened his spiral. "That’s the lowest I’ve been in my career," he reflected, acknowledging a stark decline in his once-exceptional game.

The turning point came when Fitzpatrick, after a series of humiliating performances, switched coaches. His original coach, Mike Walker, had to step back due to personal circumstances, leading Fitzpatrick to the highly regarded Mark Blackburn. Blackburn took the time to consult with both Walker and Fitzpatrick’s brother Alex before diving in, ensuring they were all on the same page.

Their collaboration has already yielded impressive results: top finishes at major tournaments like the PGA Championship and a newfound confidence in Fitzpatrick's iron game. Blackburn's approach has transformed their interactions into a partnership, akin to dating, where mutual understanding fostered rapid improvement.

Thursday at the Open, Fitzpatrick dazzled crowds with an impressive opening round of 67. He conquered difficult shots, including an eagle on the par-4 11th and a jaw-dropping chip-in at Calamity Corner, giving fans a taste of the skill that had momentarily eluded him. Despite his professed dislike for links golf, Fitzpatrick thrived in the chilly winds of Portrush, showing no signs of the struggles that once shackled him.

With vocal support from fans echoing through the fairways, Fitzpatrick is clearly back to his best, exuding a calm confidence that hints his return to greatness is steadily underway. "I feel like I’ve just had more consistency," he remarked, emphasizing the importance of building confidence as he navigates this challenging course. Matt Fitzpatrick is not just participating in the Open Championship; he’s reclaiming his legacy.