Sleeping on top of the American Open table after 54 holes is no small feat. Playing as the last duo in the final round of a major league is a complex task. Mostly without experience.
Canadian Mackenzie Hughes learned a lesson the hard way on Sunday at the South Course at Torrey Pines. Golf is too often ruthless. This is all the more true for those who experience a first.
Paired with Louis Oosthuizen in the final pair on the course, the Ontarian had a heartbreaking day that started off with a boguey. Probably because of the nervousness as the big hitters led a charge towards the top.
He remained in battle until the 9e pennant, but bad luck then threw it down. Three bogueys and a double boguey registered on the return as well as a card of 77 (+6) relegated him to a triple tie at 15e rank at +1.
“There are a lot of things that have to fall into place in the final round of a major to win,” said the 30-year-old golfer who has won a career victory on the PGA Tour. “I tasted the experience of playing in the last duo. I hope I have learned and be able to apply this lesson next time. “
“Frustrating and disappointing”
He will be able to talk about it again with his companion of the day, Louis Oosthuizen, who bit the dust again by finishing second in a major. The South African was on the hunt for a second Grand Slam title since his consecration at the 2010 British Open in St Andrews.
“I didn’t win and I finished second again. It is frustrating and disappointing. I played good golf. But winning a major tournament is not easy. You have to go for it and play well, argued the one who handed over a final card of 71. I did well, but not enough. I had my chance and tried. Sometimes it all falls into place for you, and others it doesn’t. “
A month ago, Oosthuizen had finished the PGA Championship of America in … second place!
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