Matt Fitzpatrick has openly declared that the stretch of golf he is currently experiencing ranks as the best of his professional life, a sentiment he voiced while preparing to tee off alongside his father at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. The Englishman recently secured his fourth worldwide victory of the season, edging out the competition by three strokes at the FedEx Open de France on Sunday.
This triumph adds to an already impressive résumé that includes three PGA Tour wins earlier in the year, underscoring a campaign that has been nothing short of remarkable. Although Fitzpatrick did not break into the top 14 in any of the major championships in 2026, his consistency across the calendar was evident. He amassed six top‑10 finishes worldwide in addition to his victories, a record that speaks to his ability to contend week after week.
The golfer expressed pride in his season, noting that the sheer frequency of his contention is a benchmark many players would find hard to match. "This is the best period of golf I've played for sure," Fitzpatrick told the Sky Sports Golf podcast.
He compared the current form to his 2022 season, which he also regarded highly, but highlighted that the addition of three wins—and now a fourth—demonstrated a sustained level of performance that sets this period apart. "The consistency has been the big thing," he added, emphasizing that maintaining a high standard over many events is more valuable than isolated flashes of brilliance. Fitzpatrick did not shy away from discussing the disappointment of his major‑championship results. He acknowledged that the primary goal for any professional at the start of the year is to be in contention at the majors, as those tournaments carry the greatest weight in a player's legacy.
"It's disappointing not to do that this year," he admitted, explaining that a few off‑days during three of the four majors, coupled with a mis‑executed strategy in the final one, left him short of his aspirations. Despite those setbacks, Fitzpatrick stressed that the overall season remains a success. "I've contended a lot in a lot of tournaments and that's all you could ask for in a year," he said, underscoring that the breadth of his competitive presence offsets the lack of major triumphs.
His latest victory also propelled him to the top of the Ryder Cup qualification rankings and secured a place inside the top ten of the DP World Tour's Race to Dubai standings. With a strong showing in Scotland, the 32‑year‑old could even ascend to a career‑high world No.
2. When probed about areas for improvement, Fitzpatrick indicated that his team is already reviewing various aspects of his game. "We’re approaching the end of the year and making decisions about the off‑season plan," he explained.
He mentioned that they have identified specific targets and are focusing on how to structure the work needed to achieve them, hinting at a methodical approach to fine‑tuning his performance. Fitzpatrick's personal story intertwines with family involvement in the sport.
He previously won the 2023 Alfred Dunhill Links Championship pro‑am alongside his mother, Sue, and this year he partnered with his father, Russell, for the event. The family dynamic adds a unique narrative to his professional pursuits. "I think he might get a few more strokes — he'd probably say that himself!" Fitzpatrick joked, referring to his father's potential impact on his game.
The golfer also highlighted his brother, Alex Fitzpatrick, who claimed the Zurich Classic of New Orleans title alongside him in April. The siblings share a competitive spirit and often discuss strategy together. "We’re going to need a few big days to get us into a strong position," Matt said, expressing optimism about the upcoming schedule.
He also mentioned tournament organizer Johan Rupert, hoping that any handicap adjustments after recent performances would not hinder his chances. Fitzpatrick emphasized the importance of enjoying the game despite the pressures of professional competition.
"When the pressure's on, it can be a little bit different, but we're there to have a good time and enjoy ourselves," he remarked, reflecting a balanced mindset that blends ambition with appreciation for the sport. Listeners can tune into the full interview on the Sky Sports Golf podcast, hosted weekly by Jamie Weir, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker. Video versions of the episodes are also posted on the Sky Sports Golf YouTube channel, offering fans multiple ways to engage with the content. The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship itself features a team element where Matt's brother Alex partners with their mother Sue.
The event is played across three iconic venues: Carnoustie, Kingsbarns Golf Links, and the historic Old Course at St Andrews. Defending champion Robert MacIntyre returns to defend his title, while notable Ryder Cup players such as Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, and Justin Rose add depth to the field.
Past major winners including Brooks Koepka and Cam Smith also compete, promising a high‑quality contest. Fans eager to follow the action can watch live coverage beginning Thursday at midday on Sky Sports Golf. For those seeking flexible viewing options, NOW offers streaming without a contract, and Sky Sports regularly provides promotional deals for its subscribers. In summary, Matt Fitzpatrick's season encapsulates a blend of remarkable victories, consistent contention, and a candid acknowledgment of areas for growth.
His confidence in the current stretch of his career, combined with a supportive family backdrop and a clear plan for future improvement, positions him as a compelling figure in the world of golf. Whether he can translate this form into major championship success remains to be seen, but his trajectory suggests that the best may still be ahead.