Matt Fitzpatrick Expresses Frustration Amid Ongoing Pain Post-Players Championship
Matt Fitzpatrick, coming off a runner-up finish at The Players Championship, is dealing with persistent pain. He followed a first-round 68 with a 69 on Friday at the Valspar Championship’s Copperhead Course.
Round recap
The Englishman sits firmly in contention heading into the weekend. He recorded two bogeys on the back nine that proved costly.
On the sixth hole he narrowly missed the fairway by about six inches. A similar miss occurred on the closing hole, followed by an unlucky bounce up a slope.
Health and mood
Fitzpatrick has expressed frustration amid ongoing pain since his run at TPC Sawgrass. He admitted to feeling slow and fatigued after the demanding week at The Players.
The 31-year-old said the results left him annoyed and disappointed. Observers praised his composure despite losing to Cam Young.
What he plans to work on
Practice will be light before the weekend. He plans to hit balls and focus on putting.
Fitzpatrick mentioned technical tweaks to his approach play. He will work on more retraction in his shoulders.
Schedule and outlook
After the Valspar Championship he expects two weeks off. He then turns attention to preparations for the Masters in April.
He also noted extensive time away from home during recent travel. He said his familiarity with courses remains an advantage.
Key statistics
- Round scores: 68 (R1), 69 (R2).
- Strokes gained off the tee: 60th after two rounds.
- Strokes gained putting: 91st after two rounds.
Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor his progress. Fitzpatrick remains a contender if he sharpens driving and putting this weekend.
