Open Golf: Interview with amateur Matt Fitzpatrick

Sheffield’s Matthew Fitzpatrick shot a five over par round of 76 this afternoon to leave him seven under par for the tournament with an outside chance of making the cut following the day’s play. The youngster talked to NCG about his round and gave his thoughts on what it’s like to play in The Open at just 18 years of age.

Your thoughts on today Matt?

“Disappointed. Double bogey is never a good way to finish, but don’t get me wrong I’ve enjoyed it. I’ve played with some great people. At this moment in time I’ll say I’m disappointed. I might make the cut but at the moment +7 is probably looking like one too many. I think the cut will probably be +6.”

What will you take from the week in general?

“It’s just been a great experience and I’ve met some great people. I know that I’ve got a lot of support behind me which is always nice, and it’s just been a great week really. I’ve learned a lot and that’s been the big thing for me. I’ll probably look back  The players don’t always come across well in the media but in reality that couldn’t be further from the truth and they’ve all been really nice with me. Hopefully it won’t be too long before I’m playing regularly with them but we’ll have to see about that.”

What are your plans for the rest of the summer before you head out to America after college?

“I’ve got a week off next week and then in two weeks I’ve got the English Amateur and then in four weeks I’ve got the US Amateur. So it’s just back to reality next week unfortunately.”

Have you been riding a wave of disbelief this week or have you felt at home here?

“I’ve felt like I can play with these guys and certainly hit the ball as well as most of them. Through the front nine yesterday I was 2-under which is evidence that I can play. It does give you the confidence that you can play but it’s just a little disappointing to finish the way I did.” 
Just take me back to last night. You come off the course and look at the leader board at the end of the day to find that you’re six shots ahead of Donald and McIlroy. What were you thinking at that point?

“It was quite pleasing to see that but in all honesty I think I was more bothered about making the cut than beating the big names! But it was nice to beat them after one round certainly.”

You’ve played with Jordan Speith today who is one year older than you, do you see Fitzpatrick vs Speith being played again in the future?

“We’ll have to see about that one, but it would be nice!”

Is the Walker Cup squad a realistic prospect for you now?

“I’m not sure. As daft as it sounds I could have done with a good week here, but if I do make the cut and then push on from there I think I’ve got a chance. I need two really good performances in the weeks to come to have a realistic chance.”

If you don’t make the cut, have you thought of any highlights?

“The first tee yesterday was amazing, and just the support throughout the week when I hole a putt or hit a good shot. It’s great to have the support. We’re staying for the weekend no matter what so we’ll just have to wait and see. ”