Matsuyama relishes title defence if not speech giving

SUCCESSFULLY defending the Masters is so difficult that just three players have done it, namely Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods.

Hideki Matsuyama hopes to be the latest to attempt to join that illustrious trio in the history books after recovering from a back injury in time to take his place in the field at Augusta National – but further doubt over his participation came after he withdrew from the Valero Texas Open on Friday with a neck problem.

If fit, Matsuyama has one more hurdle to overcome before he can fully focus on his title defence, with the prospect of making a speech at the traditional Champions Dinner weighing heavily on his mind.

“Of course I’m looking forward to returning to Augusta National as the defending champion,” Matsuyama said.“Looking forward to it is one way to put it; another one is I really hope I play well. There’s some expectations from myself, whether it’s pressure or not. But I am looking forward to it and also at the same time trying to prepare the best I can.

“The same with the Champions Dinner. I don’t speak English very well and so it’s kind of a t wosided coin. I’m looking forward to it, of course, to be with all those great past Masters champions, but at the same time very nervous about the speech I will be giving.”

Public speaking is not high on the list of Matsuyama’s favourite activities but speaking through his interpreter and right- hand man Bob Turner, he was happy to look back on his historic victory 12 months ago, when he became the first male Japanese player to win a Major title.

“Being the first Japanese to win a Major, and especially the Masters, has made me really happy,” the 30- year- old said.

“How it’s changed my life is a good question. I haven’t really figured that out yet. I know I’m a happier person. I’ve also noticed people have received me differently. It’s been a wonderful experience.

“If that’s changed my life, I don’t know. But that’s really the one impression that I’ve had this past year is how warmly people have embraced me and received me and cheered me on.”