Tension Mounts Between Fitzpatrick and Cantlay Ahead of Masters Showdown

Augusta, Georgia – Matthew Fitzpatrick and Patrick Cantlay are poised for a dramatic reunion as the two PGA Tour stars face off in the first round of The Masters on Thursday, April 6, 2023. Their pairing at Augusta National follows recent tensions, with Fitzpatrick labeling Cantlay’s pace of play as ‘ridiculous’ during an earlier confrontation at the RBC Heritage.

The Masters will officially begin at 7:25 a.m. Eastern Time, featuring ceremonial tee shots from golfing legends Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Watson. Fitzpatrick and Cantlay are set to tee off at 12:33 p.m., alongside Rasmus Hojgaard. Given their contentious history, many spectators are expected to tune in for the display.

Fitzpatrick didn’t hold back during his criticism of Cantlay at the RBC Heritage in April 2023, expressing frustration over the lack of discipline for slow play and the toll it takes on players. ‘It’s like hitting your head against a brick wall,’ Fitzpatrick said. ‘No one ever gets penalized. I think the last person to get penalized was the young lad [Guan Tianlang] at The Masters in 2013. I think that tells you enough about where people are at with this. It’s ridiculous really.’

Further emphasizing his point, Fitzpatrick added, ‘I think it’s a real issue; way more needs to be done. The thing is, I really like referees over here; they are great people, but I did not see a single ref all day. There were a few shots where we were waiting, and I don’t understand where they are all hiding. It does become frustrating when you are waiting so long.’

Cantlay has faced criticism for his slow play not only from Fitzpatrick but also from Ryder Cup teammate Brooks Koepka, who criticized his ‘brutally slow’ pace during the 2023 Masters. Responding to the backlash, Cantlay admitted, ‘I’m definitely slower than average, have been my whole career. I definitely take my time.’

He defended his pace of play, noting that the group’s timing has been consistent: ‘I played the last two tournaments, and my group hasn’t been warned at all. So, we’ve been in position the entire time.’ Cantlay emphasized the importance of taking time for making quality shots, especially when significant prize money is involved: ‘We’re playing for a couple million – you know, $3.6 million. If you’re going to spend an extra minute to make sure you put yourself in the right spot, we’re going to do it. That’s just the nature of our game.’

This year, Cantlay has seen a range of results, finishing tied for fifth at both The Genesis Invitational and The American Express, but only finishing tied for 33rd at the recent Valero Open. Fitzpatrick’s season has been marked by a best finish of tied for 22nd at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in March. Heading into Augusta, defending champion Scottie Scheffler is favored to win again, with competitors including Collin Morikawa and Jon Rahm close behind.

Fitzpatrick and Cantlay’s encounter is set against the backdrop of Rory McIlroy‘s pursuit of his first green jacket and a career grand slam. McIlroy, who is focused on preparation and mental clarity, credits his wife for helping him find ways to relax ahead of the important tournament. He shared his new leisure habits, such as watching series with his wife and reading fiction.

As The Masters approaches, the anticipation builds for the anticipated matchups, especially as new narratives unfold surrounding both Fitzpatrick and Cantlay.