Fitzpatrick Credits Caddie's McIlroy-Inspired Advice for Dramatic Play-Off Victory

Matt Fitzpatrick has revealed how his caddie's words of encouragement, reminiscent of those used by Rory McIlroy during his 2025 Grand Slam win, helped him secure a thrilling play-off victory at the RBC Heritage on Sunday. Fitzpatrick had let a four-shot lead slip away during the final round at Harbour Town Golf Links, but he rebounded with a winning birdie putt on the first extra hole to claim his fourth PGA Tour title. The Englishman drew inspiration from McIlroy's similar experience at Augusta National last April, where he overcame a late stumble to defeat Justin Rose in a play-off. Fitzpatrick's caddie, Daniel Parratt, used a phrase similar to one uttered by McIlroy's caddie, Harry Diamond, during that Masters win, telling Fitzpatrick that they would have taken their position at the start of the week. Fitzpatrick joked that Parratt was channeling his inner Harry Diamond, and the comment seemed to galvanize him as he went on to hit a remarkable four-iron approach on the first play-off hole. Despite a late collapse that forced a play-off against world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Fitzpatrick held his nerve and emerged victorious. He praised the energetic crowd at the RBC Heritage, saying that their chants and cheers motivated him to win. Fitzpatrick also poked fun at the American fans, suggesting that they had short memories given the European team's Ryder Cup victory in October. Scheffler, who finished runner-up for the second successive week on the PGA Tour, also commended the fans for their support. The PGA Tour now heads to Louisiana for the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, a two-man team event at TPC Louisiana.