LOS ANGELES — In a stunning turn of events, Hideki Matsuyama put on a spectacular performance to win The Genesis Invitational at Riviera Country Club. Matsuyama’s incredible final round saw him shoot a 9-under 62, overcoming a crowded leaderboard and a two-shot deficit to secure his first PGA Tour win in over two years.
The victory marked Matsuyama’s ninth career win, surpassing KJ Choi as the winningest Asian player in Tour history. Speaking through a translator, Matsuyama expressed his struggle with a back injury after his eighth win and the doubt he faced about ever winning again. “After my eighth win, I’ve been struggling with my back injury. There was a lot of times where I felt I was never going to win again. I’ve struggled reaching to top-10, but I’m really happy that I was able to win today,” Matsuyama said.
The day began with Patrick Cantlay in the lead, but his struggles allowed Matsuyama to surge ahead. Matsuyama’s remarkable play was highlighted by three consecutive birdies to open his round and then three more after the turn, putting him in contention. His incredible approach shots at both the par-4 15th and par-3 16th left him with tap-in birdies, propelling him to a one-shot lead. Matsuyama’s final round score of 62, one shot shy of the course record, cemented his victory.
Appreciating Matsuyama’s exceptional performance, Will Zalatoris remarked, “It’s kind of nice when you get beat by somebody who shoots 62 on Sunday. 62 on Sunday is usually going to win a golf tournament or make you a ton of money. Hats off to Hideki, that is just stellar playing.”
The win comes as a redemption for Matsuyama, who struggled with injuries and had a relatively quiet season on Tour last year. His victory also comes at a time when golf legend Tiger Woods had to withdraw from the event due to flu-like symptoms, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the sport.
As the PGA Tour moves to Mexico for the next event, Matsuyama’s triumph serves as a testament to the unwavering resilience and determination of professional golfers in the face of adversity.