Stenson Wins Accenture Match Play Championship

In one of the most exciting match play events I’ve seen in a while, Henrik Stenson beat Geoff Ogilvy 2 and 1 at the Accenture Match Play Championship today. There was a real ebb and flow to the match with Ogilvy leading after 18 then Stenson taking control when Ogilvy hit a couple of loose shots on the incoming nine of the afternoon match.

As I’ve said before, there’s absolutely no quit in the International players. These guys play each hole and each shot as if it’s their last one, and the outcome (both good and bad) leads to great golf. I really thought Ogilvy had the match in hand in the afternoon, but when he it some questionable shots, Stenson took advantage and hit some incredible shots of his own.

If there was one difference between watching these guys compared to the American players, it appears (and I could be wrong) that they’re not afraid of making an agressive putting stroke, and then deal with the consequences after the fact. I wouldn’t say they were fearless putters, but they’re also not afraid of making a committed stroke either. Stenson, on more than one occasion, started walking towards the hole before the ball was halfway there, knowing full well he made the putt. It wasn’t a cocky or arrogant gesture, just one of extreme confidence.

And it also appears we will be seeing more of Henrik Stenson as he’s committed to playing at least 15 PGA tournaments this year, and that can only mean good things for the PGA Tour.