In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Hideki Matsuyama triumphed at the Hero World Challenge, clinching victory in a playoff against Alex Noren. The Japanese golf sensation, donning his signature Sunday yellow shirt reminiscent of his 2024 Genesis Invitational win, was reminded by tournament host Tiger Woods to aim for greatness once more. Woods’ words seemed to resonate deeply, propelling Matsuyama to an impressive 8-under 64, featuring an eagle and six birdies at Albany Club, Nassau, Bahamas.
“I didn’t shoot 10 under but very happy to win this week,” Matsuyama humbly stated, reflecting on his performance as he closed out the year in spectacular fashion. The 33-year-old needed just one more brilliant shot to secure his victory, and he delivered. On the first playoff hole, he expertly navigated a 9-iron approach from 166 yards, landing the ball a mere 3 feet from the pin before sinking the birdie putt to outlast Noren.
Noren, a formidable opponent at 43 years old, matched Matsuyama’s final-round brilliance with his own 64, the lowest score of the day, as he overtook overnight leader Sepp Straka. Matsuyama, who had kicked off the season with a record-setting win at The Sentry in Maui, had faced a challenging stretch with no top-10 finishes in his next 22 outings. Returning to the Hero for the first time since 2018, he showcased his resilience, sharing the 36-hole lead after a solid 66 but trailing Straka by three shots going into the final round.
Straka initially held a commanding lead, showcasing his talent with a front-nine score of 32. However, Matsuyama’s relentless pursuit saw him catch Straka in dramatic fashion, spinning a wedge shot from 116 yards back into the hole for an eagle at No. 10. “I got the great imagination from Alex and able to hit a great shot,” Matsuyama acknowledged, reflecting the camaraderie among competitors.
As Matsuyama surged ahead with a remarkable 30-foot birdie at No. 13, the pressure mounted. Although he aimed for the elusive 62, the birdie opportunities dried up, and he settled for five pars to finish the round. Straka, meanwhile, stumbled at the par-5 11th, hampered by a series of mishaps that resulted in a bogey, ultimately finishing third with a score of 68.
Tiger Woods, providing commentary during the event, noted the dramatic shift in momentum: “It looked like Sepp was in total control playing nine and then all of a sudden the momentum flipped the other way.” Scottie Scheffler, vying for a third consecutive Hero World Challenge title, fell short with a 68, finishing tied for fourth.
Noren, inspired by his idol Woods, charged with eight birdies in his final 13 holes, including a pressure-packed 19-foot birdie that forced the playoff. Yet, Matsuyama’s precision proved too much, as he secured his position with a decisive shot in the playoff. With this victory, he bolstered his playoff record to five wins in six attempts on the PGA Tour.
Matsuyama’s achievement was not just a personal triumph but also a celebration of his enduring relationship with Woods, as the pair posed together on the 18th green with the winner’s trophy, a stunning bronze globe accented with vibrant patinas. “That’s why I play well in Tiger’s event,” Matsuyama remarked, encapsulating the deep respect and connection he shares with the game’s legend. This victory not only marks Matsuyama’s second Hero title but also cements his status as a dominant force in golf, as he continues to dazzle fans and competitors alike.
