Matt Fitzpatrick opened up about his approach to demanding golf course setups.
Matt Fitzpatrick Expresses Dislike for 'Birdie-Fest' Courses Ahead of U.S. Open
June 16 2026, Published 1:09 p.m. ET
Matt Fitzpatrick has shared his preference for tougher golf tests ahead of the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills. The 2022 U.S. Open champion said he does not enjoy tournaments where players can easily post low scores.
"For me personally, I want it to get as dry and firm as possible, as US Opens do and you know, just see where that takes us. I don't particularly like playing birdie fests," Fitzpatrick stated on Tuesday, June 16.
Matt Fitzpatrick Shares Why He Enjoys Firm and Windy Golf Tests
Matt Fitzpatrick backed firm and windy setups at major championship venues.
"So it's looking great already and actually a little bit disappointed that they're out there watering it right now," Fitzpatrick said.
The athlete explained that he enjoys courses where weather and conditions add extra challenges for players. He believes wind and firm surfaces force golfers to control their shots and make better decisions.
"Take today on the 11th hole, for example, the wind is pumping in out the left and I've chipped a five iron in there. If there's no wind there, you might be hitting nine iron or whatever, so to me, I feel like it's more of a test of controlling your ball, if it is windy, if it is firm."
Matt Fitzpatrick Highlights Patience and Preparation at Tough Venues
Matt Fitzpatrick highlighted the importance of patience and course management in golf.
Fitzpatrick defended the difficult setup and disagreed with claims that the course had become unfair. He said firm conditions are part of the challenge and players must understand where to place their shots to avoid trouble.
He explained that the course rewards players who prepare well and know the correct areas to miss.
Matt Fitzpatrick believes tougher courses reward preparation and smart decisions.
"I don't think they lost the golf course at all here. I think, for me, it was difficult and the strength of this golf course is its greens and the difficulty of the greens. But I do believe, aside from maybe 10 and 11, if you miss the greens in the right spots and do your homework, that you have opportunities to get up and down still."
Matt Fitzpatrick entered the U.S. Open with focus on another strong major performance.
Fitzpatrick believes tough conditions test more than just a player's shot-making ability. He feels patience, course management and smart decisions are key parts of success at difficult venues.
"I think when it is really tough like that, I enjoy that challenge, because, you know, you have to do your homework and you have to hit good shots and that's what I think is, is any, any good golf tournament should require."