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Hideki Matsuyama, a 32-year-old Japanese surprised the golf public by winning the Genesis Invitational last season. In fierce competition, the Japanese golfer managed to celebrate with nine-under 62, breaking previous records. It is the lowest final round by a winner.
Matsuyama is determined to achieve the same success this year, but this time he wants to take a photo with Tiger Woods if he is present.
"Obviously I'm looking forward to defend my title this week and I've heard some rumour that Tiger might be here this Sunday, so hopefully I get that trophy and get that picture with him this week, Matsuyama said, as reported by Korea JoonAng Daily.
Given that Tiger Woods left the competition last year due to the flu, Matsuyama was unable to take a photo with him. This year, Tiger was also supposed to participate in this competition, but the death of his mother is the reason why Tiger decided to withdraw from the tournament. He needs a period of rest after such sad news.
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The Japanese golfer recalled that although he did not meet Woods at the time, he had the opportunity to speak with Woods two months later.
He gave me a big smile and congratulated me, so that kind of made it extra special, that winning at Riviera, he said.
Hideki Matsuyama shares his disappointment
Although he will not perform at the Riviera due to the fires, the 32-year-old is confident in his abilities, stressing that he had good preparations. Defending the title is very challenging, even for the best golfers in the world. Nevertheless, Hideki is one of the best in the world, that's a fact, and such a status could make his job easier this year as well.
Obviously before the fire, I was really looking forward to coming back to Riviera, but with the situation, a bit disappointed I wasn't able to come back. (However) feel like I had a really good preparation in the two days so really looking forward to this week.- he concluded.
