Matt Fitzpatrick didn't just walk away with the trophy at the FedEx Open de France; he also catapulted himself straight to the top of the European Ryder Cup standings, making a clear statement. With a dominant victory at 20-under-par and a three-shot lead over Ángel Hidalgo, he impressively proved that he is in top form. This triumph marks a crucial step on the path to the ultimate continental showdown.
This victory is no small feat, as it propels Fitz directly into pole position in the European Ryder Cup team ranking. This is the ultimate test of qualification, and anyone at the top here has the best chance for an automatic spot on Team Europe. The man is already world No. 4, and this success marks his fourth worldwide win in 2026 – and his eleventh on the DP World Tour. Things are really going strong for him.
Fitzpatrick Plays in a League of His Own
From start to finish, Matt Fitzpatrick delivered in France. He entered the final round with a five-shot lead and never relinquished it. He finished with a total score of 20-under 264, with rounds of 65-64-65-70 – one stellar round after another. Particularly impressive: all of this took place at Le Golf National, a Ryder Cup-proven course that hosted the spectacle in 2018 and the Olympic golf competition in 2024.
Making History on the Green
With his performance, Fitzpatrick even reached a historic milestone, equaling Seve Ballesteros' 54-hole record from 1985 before ultimately clinching the title. Following three PGA Tour victories, this is his first on the DP World Tour in 2026, further emphasizing his exceptional standing this season. The Ryder Cup can come; with Matt Fitz, Europe has a true champion ready to go.
