Hideki Matsuyama has record-setting start to PGA TOUR season with victory at Kapalua
Tournament Highlights
- Historic Finish: Hideki Matsuyama posted a record-breaking 35-under 257 at the Plantation Course at Kapalua, surpassing Cameron Smith’s previous record of 34-under set in 2022.
- Unmatched Birdies: Matsuyama also set a new TOUR record for birdies or better in a single tournament with 35, breaking the mark held by Smith and Sungjae Im.
- Dominant Win: The 32-year-old secured his 11th career PGA TOUR victory and third title in the last 10 months, finishing three shots ahead of Collin Morikawa.
Key Moments
- Eagle Momentum: Matsuyama holed out a 107-yard sand wedge on the third hole for eagle, solidifying his lead early in the final round.
- Strategic Play: Despite challenges from Morikawa, Matsuyama’s consistent performance and timely birdies, including one on the 16th, sealed his victory.
- Morikawa’s Challenge: Morikawa stayed competitive but was hampered by two costly three-putts on the fifth and sixth holes, ultimately settling for second despite an impressive 66-67 weekend.
Other Highlights
- Taylor Pendrith’s Albatross: Pendrith delivered the tournament’s most stunning shot, holing a 6-iron from 200 yards on the par-5 fifth—marking the first albatross at The Plantation Course since 1999.
- Sungjae Im’s Solo Third: Im finished with a 65 for third place, earning $1.36 million.
Historical Significance
- Hawaii Double: Matsuyama joins an elite group of players to win both Hawaii tournaments on the PGA TOUR. He now has the chance to replicate Justin Thomas (2017) and Ernie Els (2003) by winning both in the same year, as he heads to the Sony Open, which he won in 2022.
- Career Milestone: The $3.6 million winner's share pushes Matsuyama’s career earnings beyond $60 million, cementing his place among the PGA TOUR’s all-time greats.
Matsuyama’s methodical and record-breaking performance at The Sentry showcases his continued dominance, with eyes now on the Sony Open to extend his Hawaii legacy.
