Matt Fitzpatrick has gained confidence for the Masters following an impressive showing at the 2026 Valspar Championship. 

The Englishman earned his third victory on the PGA TOUR at Innisbrook, demonstrating that his latest swing changes are demonstrating the ability to hold under the pressure of a back nine on a Sunday.

In the post-tournament press conference, Fitzpatrick commented on his state of mind for Augusta. "Yeah, I mean, I'm probably going to win, yeah," he said jokingly. He added, "I'm obviously very confident in my game right now. But what it takes to win a major is very different to what it takes to win on the PGA TOUR, in my opinion."

The win was made possible by an exceptional showing on the irons, an area he once considered his "missing link." Fitzpatrick said an extensive technical session with Coach Mark Blackburn shifted his perspective on his approach shots right before the Florida Swing.

While addressing the media, he said the Masters has a certain feel that makes it different from any other tour stop. "It just has that standing above all the other events, as well as the majors, you know," Fitzpatrick feels. It's an event that takes a lot of work well before to get yourself ready.

Reflecting on all he has gone through to get here, he noted that just a year ago, he was ranked about 70th in the world, struggling with a caddie change and missing cuts. Seeing the trajectory he is on and the possibility that he could win a Green Jacket makes it all the more significant.

Lessons From the 2025 Campaign

Fitzpatrick’s present situation sharply contrasts with the struggles he faced last season when he believed good golf was an unreachable goal. He mentioned he was scrambling about Augusta in 2025 while he fought with confidence in his game.

The 2022 U.S. Open champion mentioned that he played the Valero Texas Open before to try to find his rhythm. He opted to miss some tournaments in the past because of a persistent wrist injury that hindered his ability to prepare for the major championships.

While talking about the difficulties of his career, Fitzpatrick said, "That's why, you know, I hate the game, and I love the game." He has faith that the tough points of his career have given him the tools to handle the challenges of the Florida Swing better.

He plans to use the next two weeks to rest and recover, preparing himself as best he can. His current approach play is ranked best, so he is ready to take on the firm, yellow greens of the majors.

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Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Shraabona Sengupta