Matt Fitzpatrick arrives at the 2026 Valspar Championship with mixed emotions — confidence in his game, but still feeling the sting of a missed opportunity at THE PLAYERS Championship.
After finishing runner-up in one of the biggest events of the season, the Englishman didn’t hide his frustration.
“I’m disappointed, obviously. I feel like I played more than well enough to win,” Fitzpatrick admitted.
Despite the near miss, his performance reinforced what he already believed: his game is trending in the right direction.
So close… and yet not enough
Fitzpatrick revealed that, in his own analysis, just two poor shots cost him a realistic shot at the title.
“I only hit two poor shots the whole day,” he explained. “That’s what’s frustrating.”
He also pointed to missed opportunities on key holes that could have shifted the momentum earlier in the round.
“Looking back, that’s where I lost a bit of ground.”
Still, there was pride in the performance — especially on Sunday.
“I’m really pleased with the way I played… just disappointed not to come away with a win.”
Confidence growing — but fatigue kicking in
Like many players after a demanding stretch that includes Bay Hill and Sawgrass, Fitzpatrick admitted the physical toll is already noticeable.
“I definitely feel a bit slower this week,” he said.
However, with a lighter schedule early in the week, he expects to recover in time to compete at full strength.
A course that rewards precision — and patience
Fitzpatrick is a known fan of Innisbrook’s Copperhead Course, which he considers one of the best tests on the Florida Swing.
“It’s a great golf course. A great test,” he said.
With narrow fairways and demanding greens, the course demands control — something that fits perfectly with his evolving game.
The key change behind his improvement
One of the biggest reasons behind Fitzpatrick’s recent surge has been a significant technical adjustment to his swing, particularly with his approach play.
“It’s a big technical difference from how I was swinging it before… but it’s been really beneficial.”
Working with coach Mark Blackburn, Fitzpatrick has refined his iron play — an area he previously felt was holding him back from reaching the very top.
“Now I feel like I’m a more complete player.”
The final step: turning chances into wins
For Fitzpatrick, the difference between contending and winning is no longer mental — it’s execution.
“It’s about refining the game,” he explained. “The more opportunities you give yourself, eventually you’ll take one and win.”
Respect, class… and perspective
Beyond the golf, Fitzpatrick also showed his character after defeat, congratulating not only the winner but his entire family — something he credits to his upbringing.
“My parents raised me to be polite and kind. That’s where it comes from.”
He also praised the respect shown by his rival in victory.
“That was a huge sign of respect… not celebrating in my face.”
Ready to go again
Despite the disappointment, Fitzpatrick arrives at Valspar with belief — and momentum.
His game is there. His confidence is back. And if his own words are anything to go by, it may only be a matter of time before he finishes the job.
“If I keep putting myself in those positions… I’ll get one.”
