Hideki Matsuyama
Hideki Matsuyama began playing golf at the age of four, introduced to the sport by his father. He honed his skills in Japan and later attended Tohoku Fukushi University. Matsuyama gained international attention after winning the 2010 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship. This victory earned him a spot in the 2011 Masters Tournament, where he was the low amateur.
In 2013, he turned professional and quickly made an impact on the Japan Golf Tour. That year, he won four tournaments and topped the money list. Matsuyama joined the PGA Tour in 2014, earning his first win at the Memorial Tournament. His biggest achievement came in 2021 when he won the Masters, becoming the first Japanese man to win a major.
Hideki Matsuyama’s Biggest Win on Tour
Hideki Matsuyama’s biggest PGA Tour win came at the 2021 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. He shot a final-round 73 to secure a one-stroke victory. Matsuyama became the first Japanese male golfer to win a major championship. His win was celebrated across Japan and the global golf community.
Matsuyama entered the final round with a four-shot lead after a brilliant third-round 65. Despite pressure from challengers, he held steady down the stretch. His calm demeanor and precise iron play sealed the historic win. The Masters victory elevated Matsuyama’s global profile and legacy in professional golf.
Hideki Matsuyama’s Golf Equipment and Sponsorships
Hideki Matsuyama plays Srixon irons and uses a Srixon ZX5 driver, known for precision and consistent ball-striking on Tour. He often rotates putters, including Scotty Cameron and TaylorMade models, based on feel and performance preference each tournament. His golf ball of choice is the Srixon Z-STAR XV, providing optimal control, distance, and high-level tour consistency. Matsuyama is sponsored by Srixon/Cleveland, Asics for footwear, and Lexus, showcasing strong partnerships with Japanese and international brands.
Matsuyama has long trusted Srixon clubs throughout his professional career, relying on Japanese craftsmanship for superior feel and control. His wedge setup includes Cleveland RTX ZipCore models, ideal for finesse shots and aggressive spin control near the green. He wears Asics golf shoes co-developed with Srixon, promoting comfort and performance under pressure during long tournament rounds. Lexus sponsorship aligns Matsuyama with luxury branding, reinforcing his image as a top global ambassador for Japanese excellence in sport.
Latest News on Hideki Matsuyama
3/24/25
In January 2025, Hideki Matsuyama won The Sentry at Kapalua Resort with a record-breaking 35-under-par score. This victory marked his 11th PGA Tour win, solidifying his status as the most successful Japanese golfer in PGA Tour history. Following this, Matsuyama secured a tie for 16th place at the Sony Open in Hawaii. He then experienced mixed results, including a tie for 13th at The Genesis Invitational and a missed cut at The Players Championship.
During The Players Championship, ESPN analyst John Maginnes made an inappropriate comment linking Matsuyama’s performance to “bad sushi.” This remark was widely criticized by fans and media for perpetuating stereotypes. Despite these challenges, Matsuyama’s early 2025 performances demonstrate his resilience and ongoing competitiveness on the PGA Tour.
6/13/25
Hideki Matsuyama posted a strong first-round T53 at the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club. He qualified to play the Travelers Championship (June 19–22), joining fellow Top‑10 stars. Matsuyama earned victory at The Sentry with a record-breaking −35 total earlier this year. His recent form includes a Sunday 66 at The Masters, finishing T21 this April.
Matsuyama’s 19‑major consecutive cut streak ended at Quail Hollow’s PGA Championship. He missed the cut after rounds of 72‑73, expressing frustration with his short‑game play. Despite this setback, he rallied to contention at the Truist Championship, thanks to hot putting. Matsuyama now focuses on refining consistency ahead of the Travelers and U.S. Open weekend.