Tournament article

ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP 2019

Hideki Matsuyama makes eagle start at shortened Par 4 10 to finish at 3T after Round 2

So many irregular were happening at Round 2 of ZOZO Championship on Saturday, but regardless of all the irregulars, and with some advantages of that irregularity, Hideki finished at 3T with total 8 under and 4 shots behind of leader Tiger Woods.

Due to the heavy rain and in concerns for the safety of the spectators, PGA Tour has decided to make Round 2 on Saturday as "closed to all spectator" day. So the loudly heard "Hideki" cheers were unheard on Saturday.

Hideki started from Par 4 10th tee, which was shortened to only 140 yards, due to flooding water covered up most part of the fairways on that hole.

"Playing 140 yards Par 4 was maybe since I was in elementary school. But come to think of it as regular Par 3 or 2nd shot on Par 4, it would be the same."

Well relaxed but also focused Hideki made 4-meter eagle putt to start out with a bang, but no cheers.
"It felt as if I was playing private golf, since there were no spectators."

Hideki watched the rain disaster reports on news at his hotel last night, but he was astonished to see the damages on the course for real.
"I felt really shocked to see the course covered with flooded water, especially the 10th hole. It was a shame that spectators were not allowed in today, but we don't want anyone to get injured, so I think it was right decision. In order to make it up for the loss, I would like to play better and show greater shots tomorrow. I am also glad that scored well today, so that I will still be in good position for the fans to cheer for me tomorrow. I will try to play my best so that might give little bit of power to those in need."

Hideki will try to make a comeback win against Tiger with 36 holes left to play tomorrow.