Hideki Matsuyama has won the latest edition of the Hero World Challenge after a playoff win over Alex Noren.
Two-time defending champion Scottie Scheffler fell short at the Hero World Challenge, finishing T4 at Albany in The Bahamas.
That paved the way for a different winner this year, with Matsuyama defeating Noren in a one-hole playoff to claim the Hero World Challenge title.
He birdied the replayed 18th hole to emerge victorious at the tournament hosted by golfing legend Tiger Woods.
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When asked what Woods means to him after his success, champion Matsuyama responded: “So Tiger is my idol.
“A couple of years ago in LA, couldn’t take a picture, but… sorry, nine years ago the first time able to take a picture with Tiger and I want to take a picture with Tiger more. That’s why… that’s why I play well on Tiger’s event.”
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Hideki Matsuyama joins Tiger Woods and Scottie Scheffler after Hero World Challenge win
The victory represents Matsuyama’s second at the event, with the Japanese star having also triumphed in 2016.
Despite his injury struggles, tournament host Woods attended the Hero World Challenge, which returned to The Bahamas this week.
And he also drew praise from runner-up Noren, who was asked how proud he was after his final round 64.
He said: “Yeah, I’m super proud. It was just amazing to get in this field. I got in from an invite from Tiger and his team.
“I think it’s an honor to play in a tournament having his name on there and everything he does for charity and his whole foundation. It feels extra special to show up and perform when you get an invite.”
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Noren was joined by Matsuyama with a fourth round 64, with both players ending their tournaments on 22-under.
But it was the Japan icon who edged out the Swede early in the playoff, joining Woods as a multiple champion.
The host boasts a record five Hero World Challenge titles, with Davis Love III, Graeme McDowell, Viktor Hovland and Scheffler representing the other multi-winners.
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