Sheffield-born golfer Matt Fitzpatrick has clinched a dominant three-shot victory at the FedEx Open de France at Le Golf National, securing his fourth worldwide win of 2026 and his inaugural DP World Tour title of the season.
The world No 4 entered the final day with a commanding five-shot advantage, a lead he never relinquished throughout the round. Fitzpatrick carded a final-round 70, which included two birdies and a single bogey, to finish the tournament on an impressive 20 under par. This win marks his 11th career DP World Tour title, according to Sky Sports.
Maintaining Control Against Challengers
Despite Fitzpatrick’s strong lead, several competitors made attempts to close the gap during the final day. Eugenio Chacarra, playing in an earlier group, mounted an early challenge by birdying four of his first six holes, temporarily narrowing Fitzpatrick’s lead. Kristoffer Reitan also moved within three shots of the leader at one point.
However, Fitzpatrick regained full control of the tournament as his rivals faltered. Chacarra’s title bid was derailed after an errant tee shot and finding water, leading to a double bogey. Fitzpatrick capitalised by firing an approach shot at the 13th to close range and sinking a 20-foot putt at the 15th, extending his lead back to five shots and solidifying his position.
Angel Hidalgo from Spain finished strongly, carding a final-round 67, which included three birdies in his last five holes, to secure outright second place. His runner-up finish also earned him a spot in The Open at St Andrews next summer via The Open Qualifying Series.
Fitzpatrick’s Reaction and Record-Equalling Feat
Reflecting on his victory, Fitzpatrick expressed his delight, telling reporters, “It was definitely a battle today. Didn’t have my best stuff for the first 12 holes and then managed to find some of my best stuff.” He added, “Golf is a game of multiple skills and I used them all in the end this week.”
This triumph also saw Fitzpatrick equal a significant historical record. According to RTE.ie, he matched Seve Ballesteros’ 1985 record for the lowest score under par after 54 holes at the Open de France. The English golfer had already enjoyed a successful 2026 season on the PGA Tour, claiming wins at the Valspar Championship, RBC Heritage, and Zurich Classic of New Orleans.
Yorkshire Pride in Sporting Success
For readers in Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region, Matt Fitzpatrick’s continued success on the global stage is a source of regional pride. His consistent performance in major golf tournaments, culminating in this significant European tour victory, highlights the calibre of sporting talent from the area.
