Will Zalatoris showcased his resilience in his fourth PGA Tour event since his return from injury, delivering his strongest performance of the season. Despite a stellar display, the Dallas, TX native was outshone by Hideki Matsuyama’s record-breaking prowess at the Genesis Invitational.
Zalatoris secured a remarkable tie for second place, concluding the tournament with a final round 2-under 69, reaching a commendable 14-under overall. However, Matsuyama’s extraordinary performance left him trailing by three shots.
Reflecting on his emotional journey throughout the week, Zalatoris tearfully revealed the loss of a family member on Thursday, expressing gratitude for the profound support he felt throughout his play. He particularly highlighted the significance of his hole-in-one on Friday, dedicating his performance to the memory of his loved one.
Starting the day strongly with an opening birdie, Zalatoris encountered challenges, momentarily falling back to even par on the par-4 5th hole. Nonetheless, he showcased his resilience by adding another birdie on the front nine, turning in 34 shots.
Displaying tenacity, Zalatoris closed the gap with two additional birdies at the 11th and 13th holes, momentarily leading the field. However, a setback on the par-4 15th hole hindered his pursuit of victory.
Despite the setback, Zalatoris, a 27-year-old former Wake Forest Demon Deacon, capitalized on his sponsor exemption, utilizing the tournament as preparation for upcoming majors. He emphasized the importance of being able to refine his game while contending, particularly focusing on his putting performance.
While facing challenges with his putter during crucial moments, Zalatoris remained optimistic about his progress, acknowledging improvements in his gameplay week by week.
With a previous T13 finish at the Farmers Insurance Open and his impressive T2 finish at the Genesis Invitational, Zalatoris expressed confidence in his journey back to form.
Acknowledging the physical and emotional hurdles he overcame following surgery and an extended hiatus from golf, Zalatoris remained determined to continue his upward trajectory. Despite falling short of victory, his unwavering resolve suggests a promising future with potential PGA Tour triumphs on the horizon.
In light of his remarkable comeback and perseverance, it’s evident that Zalatoris is poised for further success on the PGA Tour, affirming his status as a rising star in the golfing world.
