Matthieu Pavon Becomes First Frenchman to Win on the PGA Tour Since World War II
Matthieu Pavon made history on Saturday as he became the first Frenchman to win a PGA Tour event since World War II. The 31-year-old rookie clinched victory in the Farmers Insurance Open with a dramatic birdie on the 18th hole at Torrey Pines South. Pavon’s 8-foot putt secured a one-shot win and sparked scenes of celebration as he raised his arms in triumph.
Pavon’s journey to this significant triumph has not been without its challenges. The French golfer revealed that he nearly quit the sport a decade ago due to the yips, a putting condition that affected his game. Reflecting on his victory, Pavon expressed hope that his achievement would inspire others.
It is big for our country. I hope it will inspire a lot of people because coming from an amateur player which is 800 in the world to a PGA Tour winner is pretty big, Pavon said.
The Farmers Insurance Open was scheduled to end on Saturday to avoid clashing with the NFL’s conference championship games. At the conclusion of the tournament, Pavon finished at 13 under par, edging out Nicolai Hojgaard by one stroke. Stephan Jaeger and Nate Lashley finished two shots behind.
Pavon seized the lead on the 12th hole and maintained a two-stroke advantage until a missed 3-foot putt on the 17th hole led to a bogey. With the pressure mounting, Pavon delivered a crucial birdie on the last hole to secure the victory and avoid a playoff.
His journey to success has been a remarkable one, considering that he was born in Toulouse and grew up playing soccer, following in the footsteps of his professional father. Pavon eventually switched to golf and has now written his name in the PGA Tour history books.
When faced with a challenging situation on the 18th, Pavon showed great courage and determination. After his drive landed in a sand trap and his second shot went astray, he had a crucial decision to make. He chose to go for it, and his third shot, a brilliant one, landed just 8 feet away from the hole.
Reflecting on the moment, Pavon said, That was the right time to prove I have the guts to finish that tournament, and I did it, so I’m so happy about that last hole.
Pavon’s victory comes after Martin Trainer, a French-American golfer, won the 2019 Puerto Rico Open while representing the United States. Trainer later switched his nationality to France.
The triumph at the Farmers Insurance Open marks a significant milestone in Pavon’s career, as he was playing in just his 11th PGA Tour event. He had previously secured one victory on the European Tour.
The French golfer has always dreamed of playing in America and expressed his admiration for the country. Since I came to America for the first time to practice in West Palm, I loved everything about America; the mentality, the sport, everything you guys do. It feels like I’m an American somehow, Pavon shared.
Pavon’s victory serves as a symbol of inspiration and showcases the potential for success that lies within every aspiring golfer. As he basks in the glory of this historic win, Pavon has proven that dedication and perseverance can overcome any obstacle, further solidifying his place in sporting history.
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