English golfer Matt Fitzpatrick has revealed that his caddie's wise words, similar to those used by Rory McIlroy during his 2025 Grand Slam win, inspired him to a thrilling play-off victory at the RBC Heritage. Fitzpatrick had let a four-shot lead slip away during the final round, but he rebounded with a winning birdie putt to claim his fourth PGA Tour title. His caddie, Daniel Parratt, had told him, 'we'd have taken this start of the week,' which echoed the encouragement McIlroy received from his caddie, Harry Diamond, during his Masters win.
Fitzpatrick joked that his caddie was channeling Diamond, and the words of encouragement helped him stay focused and composed under pressure. Fitzpatrick's victory came after a dramatic final round, which saw him lose his lead and then regain it in a play-off against world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. Despite the intense atmosphere, with American fans cheering heavily for Scheffler, Fitzpatrick said he thrived on the energy of the crowd and was motivated by their chants.
Scheffler also praised the fans, saying they were 'cordial' and 'appreciative' of his play. The PGA Tour now heads to Louisiana for the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, a two-man team event at TPC Louisiana.