The Japanese Hideki Matsuyama is alone in the lead at the start of the last round of the Augusta Masters. With four strokes ahead of his pursuers including former leader Justin Rose, Matsuyama could be the first Japanese in history to win in a Major tournament.

The Masters: Hideki Matsuyama with a sleeve of the green jacket?

The Masters: Hideki Matsuyama in one sleeve of the green jacket - Photo Getty Images

Imperial Hideki Matsuyama took control of the Augusta Masters from Justin Rose, on the eve of the last lap with four strokes ahead of his pursuers. In case of victory Matsuyama would be the first Japanese in history to win in a Major tournament.

Matsuyama, ex world number two, concluded a masterful 3rd round, with an excellent 65 (-7) studded with an eagle and five birdies, without the slightest bogey.

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The game was interrupted for 78 minutes due to rain at the end of the afternoon.
« After the siren sounded to announce the recovery, I hit each blow exactly as I wanted it “, Matsuyama commented on NBC.

Fifth in 2015 is his best ranking in Augusta, he is the first Japanese to conclude a Masters round at the top of the leaderboard.

« This is new for me " Matsuyama said of his position the day before a final round to play in a Grand Slam tournament.  » All I can do is relax, prepare well and do my best tomorrow ” commented Matsuyama who would obviously see herself imitating her compatriot, Tsubasa Kajitani, winner of the Women's Masters in amateur last Saturday.

His first Masters appearance was as an amateur golfer at age 19. Now the 29-year-old player, leading the Masters, with a nice four-point lead ahead of Justin Rose, (72), Xander Sc Chaudele (68), Marc Leishman (70) and Will Zalatoris (71).

ScHotele, who put in a 28-yard putt for the eagle on the 15, has finished in the top-5 five times in major tournaments. In 2019, he shared second place in Augusta, behind Tiger Woods.
« I had some great shots with my irons. I can't wait for Sunday. said ScHotele "

Hole in one for the Canadian Corey Conners who achieved a real feat by signing a 9 iron ace on hole 6, a par 3 of 170 meters. A good operation for the 29-year-old North American, 20th in the 2020 Masters, he found himself 6th, with a solid 68 (-6) with five birdies against three bogueys.

Jordan Spieth alone occupies 7th place (-5) 6 strokes behind the leader, following a double bug and two buggy. He will have to put out his best golf course to try to put on the green jacket a second time after his coronation in 2015.

Phil Mickelson returned to par with a 69 (-3) card.
He made four birdies.

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