Patrick is no treat but he showed real guts & guile
PATRICK REED won’t win too many popularity contests – but he’s a worthy Masters champion.
It was a fully deserved success and a memorable maiden major triumph at Augusta National.
At the risk of stating the obvious, Captain America isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.
Truth be told, most neutrals were cheering on Spieth and Fowler down the final stretch.
But credit where credit is due – Reed carved out a lead and defended it in the heat of battle.
That takes guts as well as guile. It’s tough leading from the front on the final day.
Time flies, but it’s hard to forget Reed declaring himself one of the world’s top-five players after winning the Wgc-cadillac in Miami in 2014.
He was only 23 and had yet to feature in a Major. His brashness over the years has irked a lot of people – including Tiger – but he has backed up that promise.
Since turning pro in 2011, he has climbed from 762nd to 11th in the rankings, amassed six PGA Tour wins and celebrated a first major victory.
There’s a certain irony that it should come at the Masters.
Reed went to Augusta State – something I have in common with him, having also studied there in the early-90s, so I know it will mean a lot to the college. His parents also live in the city, but he can hardly be described as a home favourite.
His chequered past has seen to that. His CV is marred by several colourful remarks and transgressions, including shushing the Gleneagles crowd during the 2014 Ryder Cup.
But forget about Reed’s past; his determination to get the job done on Sunday was brilliant because make no mistake, it’s always easier being the hunter than the hunted.
Sleeping on a Masters lead and delivering victory the next day commands my total respect, especially when you have Spieth, Fowler and Mcilroy in your rearview mirror.
After talking the talk for so long, Reed walked the walk.
A lot of players boast skill and talent, but it takes resilience and mental strength to win a major. He showed both in abundance on Sunday.
Reed may divide opinion and his reputation trundles before him, but he’ll hardly care with a Green Jacket hanging in his wardrobe.
At the weekend, he was asked why the social media masses were rooting against him.
“I don’t know,” he replied. “I don’t really care what people say on Twitter... if they are cheering for me or not. I’m here to do my job and that’s to play golf.”
He did his job at Augusta.
The fact he did it on his own terms will make it extra special.