English golfer Matt Fitzpatrick laughed off boos from American fans during the final round of the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass. Cameron Young claimed victory after Fitzpatrick bogeyed the 18th hole. Fitzpatrick called the crowd reaction 'child’s play' compared to past events.
During the final round of the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass, Matt Fitzpatrick and Cameron Young were tied entering the 72nd hole. Spectators chanted 'U-S-A' approaching the 17th green and booed Fitzpatrick on the 18th tee. On the 17th, the island-green par-3, Young birdied while Fitzpatrick parred, evening the score after Fitzpatrick had led by one stroke. Fitzpatrick then pushed his drive into pines on the 18th, leading to a bogey, as Young parred to win the title. Fitzpatrick made six birdies and two bogeys in the round, including birdies on 13 and 15 to take and regain the lead after a bogey on 14. Asked about the crowd, Fitzpatrick said: “Listen, the crowd, that was literally child’s play compared to Bethpage. If they think that was anything, then they need to reassess. Get yourself up to New York.” He referenced rowdy crowds at the previous year's Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black and his 2023 RBC Heritage playoff win over Jordan Spieth. “I knew it was coming. I had it with Jordan Spieth in 2023. Yeah, it’s funny to me. I find it hilarious,” he added. Fitzpatrick noted Europeans are 'a little bit more polite' but hoped for similar intensity abroad. On his errant tee shot, he explained it went 'dead straight' into rough instead of drawing as expected. Despite the finish, he expressed optimism about progress with coach Mark Blackburn and confidence in closing deals, telling his psychologist he needs to contend more often.
