Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama wins historic Masters 2021 tittle

Hideki Matsuyama held off the field to win the Masters by one stroke at Augusta National and become the first Japanese man to claim a major title.

Matsuyama had a four-shot lead heading into the final day and, despite some nervy moments on Sunday, shot a one-over 73 to win on 10 under par.

American debutant Will Zalatoris was his closest challenger on nine under.

England’s Justin Rose, who led for two rounds, faded in the final 18 holes with a two-over 74 to end five under.

Xander Schauffele, playing with Matsuyama, birdied the 15th to close to within two shots, but hit his tee shot in the water on the 16th as his challenge finished with a triple-bogey six.

He ended on seven under in a share of third with fellow American and 2015 champion Jordan Spieth.

Spanish world number three Jon Rahm posted a final-day 66 to come in a further stroke back, alongside Australia’s Marc Leishman.

Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre impressed on his debut and finished joint 12th at two under to secure his place at next year’s Masters.

Source: BBC Sports