Matt Fitzpatrick encountered a fortunate turn of events during the BMW PGA tournament when two youngsters unknowingly took his golf ball, leading to a crucial decision. Despite being near the top of the leaderboard, Fitzpatrick faced a dilemma after his ball disappeared following a wayward tee shot on the 18th hole prior to a weather delay.
His quick-thinking caddie, Dan Parratt, initiated a search for the missing ball based on eyewitness accounts of the boys’ actions. Consulting with the referee, Fitzpatrick opted not to play a provisional ball, instead taking a penalty drop that resulted in a bogey six and a total of six-under 66 for the round.
Reflecting on the incident, Fitzpatrick acknowledged the potential risk of losing the ball to spectators and expressed gratitude for the unexpected assistance from the young “thieves.” His strong performance in the tournament continued his recent impressive form, earning him a wildcard spot for the upcoming Ryder Cup.
Ludvig Aberg, Fitzpatrick’s playing partner and fellow Ryder Cup teammate, also excelled in the tournament, sharing the clubhouse lead with an impressive score of 64. The pair’s camaraderie and shared success hint at potential pairings for the Ryder Cup matches at Bethpage Black.
Looking ahead, Fitzpatrick remains focused on maintaining his positive momentum and readiness for the challenges ahead, including the upcoming event in New York. The camaraderie and performance of players like Fitzpatrick and Aberg exemplify the competitive spirit and sportsmanship that define events like the Ryder Cup, creating lasting memories and celebrating golfing legends.