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Chris Gotterup Stuns Hideki Matsuyama In Dramatic Play-Off To Win Phoenix Open
Chris Gotterup produced one of the most thrilling comebacks of the PGA Tour season, edging out Hideki Matsuyama in a dramatic play-off to claim victory at the Phoenix Open in Scottsdale, Arizona.
The American golfer entered the final round four shots behind overnight leader Matsuyama but delivered a sensational late charge to flip the script and lift the trophy at TPC Scottsdale.
Late Birdie Blitz Turns The Tournament On Its Head
Gotterup saved his best golf for when it mattered most. He fired five birdies in his final six holes, signing for a brilliant seven-under-par 64 to post a clubhouse target of 16 under par.
The surge applied immense pressure on Matsuyama, who had been rock solid throughout the final round. However, the Japanese star bogeyed the 18th hole — his only dropped shot of the day — finishing with a 68 and forcing a sudden-death play-off.
Play-Off Drama At The 18th
The contest returned to the 18th hole for the play-off, where the pressure finally told.
Matsuyama found the water with his approach shot, opening the door for Gotterup. The American kept his composure, rolling in a birdie to seal a memorable victory in front of the raucous Phoenix Open crowd.
“I Just Stayed Loose” – Gotterup Reacts
Speaking after the win, Gotterup admitted he never expected to be lifting the trophy after mixed middle rounds earlier in the week.
“I didn’t think this would happen, especially after Friday and Saturday, but here we are,” he said.
“Hideki was playing great. I just figured I would stay loose.”
Gotterup opened the tournament with a stunning 63, followed by rounds of 71 and 70, before his final-round heroics completed the comeback.
Fourth PGA Tour Title, Second Of The Season
The Phoenix Open triumph marks:
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Gotterup’s fourth career PGA Tour win
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his second victory of the season, following success at the Sony Open in Hawaii
His rapid rise this season continues to establish him as one of the most in-form players on tour.
Scheffler And Fitzpatrick Fall Just Short
World number one Scottie Scheffler narrowly missed out on the play-off by a single stroke after carding a 64 in the final round. A costly opening-round 73 ultimately proved decisive.
“If I get in the house the first day with a couple under par, it’s a little different story today,” Scheffler reflected.
England’s Matthew Fitzpatrick finished tied ninth on 13 under par, closing with a solid 69.
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