In a deeply moving press conference subsequent to his T2nd finish at the Genesis Invitational, American golfer Will Zalatoris disclosed the tragic news of a recent family loss. Little known to many, Zalatoris dedicated his performance at Riviera to the memory of his departed loved one, carrying her with him in thought and spirit throughout the entire week.
Clearly overwhelmed with emotion, Zalatoris became visibly distraught as he conveyed, “I suffered a loss in the family on Thursday and she remained with me throughout the week. It was quite special to make the hole-in-one on Friday after learning the news on Thursday. She was with me the entire week.”
Having recently made a comeback following an eight-month hiatus due to back surgery, Zalatoris conveyed his pride in the results of his performance despite the grief he was experiencing. He also mentioned his intentions to journey up to the North West to be with his family during this trying time.
The golfer demonstrated fortitude and resolve despite the difficult conditions, achieving his best finish since his absence, with previous showings of MC-T34-T13 at the beginning of the year. Zalatoris, the runner-up at the 2021 Masters and the 2022 PGA Championship and US Open, concluded with a score of 69 (-2) to tie for second place at 14-under-par.
When reflecting on his overall performance, Zalatoris expressed, “I’m improving every week, so I know I just need to continue doing what I’m doing… It’s gratifying to be able to make these improvements when I’m in the running. I can fully commit to what I’m doing.”
The golfer also recognized the importance of the tournament in his preparation for upcoming Majors, conveying his appreciation for the chance to compete at such a high level.
Despite falling short of the victory, Zalatoris maintained an optimistic outlook regarding the advancement of his game, emphasizing the significance of cherishing every moment and acknowledging the unpredictable nature of life.
In the midst of personal tragedy, Zalatoris’ stoicism and unwavering commitment to the sport stand as a testament to his strength of character, serving as a source of inspiration for fans and fellow golfers alike.
To remain informed about the latest tour news, equipment updates, and expert insights, we invite you to subscribe to the Golf Monthly newsletter and become a part of our expanding community of golf enthusiasts. Stay well-versed and engaged with the most compelling stories and developments within the world of golf.