Matt Fitzpatrick, the three-time winner on the PGA TOUR this year, made a strong statement at the RBC Canadian Open, finishing as the runner-up with a hard-charging 64. Despite a recent slump in performance, Fitzpatrick's putting prowess shone through, making him a force to be reckoned with ahead of the U.S. Open.
Fitzpatrick's putting struggles were evident in his previous tournaments, with a 52nd-place tie at the Truist Championship, a 14th-place tie at the PGA Championship, and a 36th-place tie at the Memorial Tournament. However, a routine change in his putting approach, eliminating a second look at the hole, transformed his performance.
The statistics speak for themselves. During the final round, Fitzpatrick made six birdies, an eagle on the 18th hole, and a remarkable 116 feet of putts. He finished fifth in Strokes Gained: Putting in the final round and 11th overall for the week. This improvement in putting was a significant factor in his strong performance at the RBC Canadian Open.
Fitzpatrick's success at the Canadian Open couldn't have come at a better time, as the U.S. Open is just around the corner at Shinnecock Hills. The course holds fond memories for Fitzpatrick, who won the 2022 U.S. Open at the Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts, after a dramatic final-hole bunker escape and a precise approach shot. His 12th-place finish in 2018 at Shinnecock Hills further highlights his familiarity and comfort with the course.
As Fitzpatrick prepares for the U.S. Open, his recent performance at the RBC Canadian Open serves as a testament to his resilience and adaptability. His ability to turn around a putting slump and maintain a competitive edge is a testament to his skill and mental fortitude. With his eye on the prize, Fitzpatrick is poised to make a strong showing at the U.S. Open, further solidifying his status as a top contender on the PGA TOUR.
