Matsuyama birdies final hole to clinch St. Jude Championship victory

Hideki Matsuyama birdied the final hole to clinch a two-stroke victory at the St. Jude Championship.

On a topsy-turvy final day in the first event of the FedEx Cup Playoffs, overnight leader Matsuyama held his nerve at the last at TPC Southwind in Tennessee.

Matsuyama carded his worst round of the tournament on Sunday, but a cool and composed birdie putt sealed a 17 under finish and his 10th win in a playoff event.

The 2021 Masters champion held off 2024's form player Xander Schauffele, who rose up seven places after going round in 63 to tie second on 15 under along with Viktor Hovland.

World number two Scottie Scheffler placed fourth, a shot back, ahead of Sam Burns and Nick Dunlap, whose par on the final hole ensured his place in the top 50, meaning he will be able to play in the second leg of the playoffs.

That will take place next week, at the BMW Championship at Castle Pines in Colorado.

Win No. 10 for Hideki at the @FedExChamp! Matsuyama is victorious at the first event of the #FedExCup Playoffs. pic.twitter.com/LWiLnvuuUV

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) August 18, 2024