DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP

November 19, 2022

Matt Fitzpatrick

Jumeirah Golf Estates

Quick Quotes

Q. Give us your thoughts on a round of 70, 2-under par?

MATT FITZPATRICK: Yeah, just didn't get going early doors there. I just sort of struggled a little bit, got out of position off the tee and from there around this golf course this year with the rough up, it's difficult to do anything.

So felt like I drove it a little bit better on the back nine, and I gave myself a few more chances and made the putts as well, which was a big help.

Q. You started the round tied for the lead but by the ninth hole you fall behind a flying Tyrrell Hatton. How important is patience and experience at that point?

MATT FITZPATRICK: Yeah, it's something I've learnt massively this year is to be more patient. I wouldn't necessarily say I'm -- well, I'm not the best at it. I've got so much better, probably, since being told off by Billy in April.

So I think that's been a big thing that's come on for me is just being patient and knowing that I'm playing some good golf. I feel really comfortable with my irons this week, and that's been a big, big change and a big step forward over the last few months. So yeah, looking forward to going into tomorrow.

Q. If things go your way tomorrow, you cannot only win this championship but potentially be granted European No. 1 at the end; what would that mean to you?

MATT FITZPATRICK: Yeah, it would mean the world. I'm going to need a lot of things go my way. I feel like this is the -- well, potentially, with what happens tomorrow, could be a third win here, and if it happens, it could be all three times I've not won The Race to Dubai.

So yeah, maybe I guess I just leave it a little bit too late to play well but I've given myself a chance tomorrow, and that's all you can do at the start of the week. I'll do the best I can and fingers crossed.