Hatton can’t wait for Bay crowd and Bryson’s big hit

ONE year on from his Arnold Palmer Invitational victory that changed everything, Tyrrell Hatton is in reflective mood.

‘It feels such a long time ago now with all that’s happened in the world,’ he said. ‘One minute I was putting on the iconic winner’s red cardigan on the 18th green in a state of disbelief and on top of the world. Then everything changed a few days later. I don’t think any of us realised how much our lives would alter.’

The world No5 is looking forward to the semblance of normality that will greet his title defence at Bay Hill in Orlando this week with the return of a sizeable number of fans. Around 8,000 spectators will be present and it will be the same at every tournament until the Masters in six weeks’ time when about 10,000 patrons are expected.

‘I think all the players have been waiting for this,’ said Hatton. ‘We’ve all adapted to not having fans present but I can’t imagine there’s anyone who thinks it’s comparable to the real thing.’

The crowd will be delighted if Bryson DeChambeau fulfils his promise to have a bash at driving the par-five sixth hole that sweeps around a lake and measures 555 yards. The carry from tee to green over the water is 350 yards.

‘If I play this year, I’m definitely going to do it,’ said DeChambeau, before confirming his entry.

Asked for his thoughts, Hatton laughed: ‘If he does have a go and pulls it off, it’ll be a heck of a feat.’

Hatton has despatched Rory

McIlroy to claim the Abu Dhabi Championship and clamber above him as the leading UK golfer this year.

‘When you think of the stature of Rory and the other players we have, it seems surreal,’ he said.

Meanwhile, American Collin Morikawa holds a two-shot lead after the third round of the WGC-Workday Championship in Florida last night.