AUGUSTA, Ga. -- Maybe the first hint that Will Zalatoris had what it took came when he was 6, and Ken Venturi went over to him on a driving range to show him a grip that he hasn't changed since. Or maybe it was at 11, when a pro named David Price said he could be great if he put in the work.Either way, the secret is out now.
But let these numbers illustrate how much his life has changed, and how quickly it happened: In April 2019, he finished 61st in an event called the Dormie Network Classic and earned $1,408. In April 2021, he finished second at the Masters and earned $1,242,000. Matsuyama shot a 3-under 69 on Thursday; Zalatoris shot a 70. He actually was two shots better than the eventual Masters champion through 36 holes, after a 68 on Friday. Matsyuama really won the tournament on Saturday, shooting a 65 that put him in full control and left him four shots clear of his nearest challengers, Zalatoris included.
He was my horse... so close!