MASTERS: Hideki Matsuyama Makes History At Augusta

Before today only two men have ever made a run at winning a Major on the PGA TOUR. Isao Aoki at the 1980 US Open and Matsuyama when he tied for second at the 2017 US Open.

1980 U.S. Open Highlights

Many people had written Jack Nicklaus off as a major-championship contender since the Golden Bear hadn’t been in the winner’s circle in nearly two years. But in an epic duel with Japan’s Isao Aoki – they played together during all four rounds – Nicklaus broke his own 72-hole scoring record of 275 set in 1967 on Baltusrol’s Lower Course with an 8-under 272, besting Aoki by two strokes.

This changed when Matsuyama tapped in his final putt on 18 at Augusta and became the 2021 Masters champion.

“Matsuyama is Japan’s first Masters Champion!” pic.twitter.com/WdtjjJIGBK

— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) April 11, 2021

Before today it was estimated that over 9 million people play golf in Japan. We can double that number now. Matsuyama is no stranger to success at Augusta. In 2011 he was crowned the low amateur and now he’s a Masters Champion.

2011: Low Amateur
2021: Masters Champion pic.twitter.com/YEOjo5TrQl

— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) April 11, 2021

Congratulations to Matsuyama. He is now a Masters Champion!

Cover Image via Instagram