Out of Matt's shadow and meeting Michael Jordan - Alex Fitzpatrick's rise

Alex Fitzpatrick's meteoric rise on the PGA Tour has taken another significant step forward, highlighted by a chance encounter with NBA legend Michael Jordan following his recent victory. The 26-year-old English golfer, who clinched his first DP World Tour title at the Indian Open in March, stood out not just for his performance on the course but also for the surreal experience off it. While celebrating with his brother and world number four Matt Fitzpatrick at a golf club in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, Alex received an unexpected visit from Jordan, who casually walked over to congratulate the newly crowned champions.

The encounter with Jordan, whom Fitzpatrick had admired since childhood, left a lasting impression. "I look over and it's Michael Jordan," Fitzpatrick recalled. "I'm like 'wow', it's insane. He walks past the table with a bag full of cigars, t-shirt untucked—he looked like the coolest person ever." Jordan, who also greeted PGA Tour winner Gary Woodland, remarked on the room being filled with winners, a comment Fitzpatrick described as "the coolest thing ever."

Fitzpatrick’s success this season extends far beyond the Jordan handshake. His five top-10 finishes in 13 starts on the PGA Tour, including victories at the Zurich Classic and Indian Open, have silenced critics who questioned his two-year tour card earned through his April win. Now, ranked 68th in the world, he has firmly established himself among golf’s elite, doing so without heavily relying on his brother’s advice. "We haven't spoken that much about a lot of stuff," Fitzpatrick said. "I've picked his brain maybe once or twice this year. I feel comfortable out here."

The Fitzpatrick brothers made history in April as the first siblings to win a PGA Tour event together at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. While Alex has often been introduced as "Matt Fitzpatrick's brother," his recent achievements suggest he is stepping out of that shadow. Following his victories, he tied for ninth at the Cadillac Championship in May and finished fourth at the Truist Championship at Quail Hollow, where he felt he truly belonged among the top players. "I never had the chance or facts to back up my own belief," he said. "At that point, I felt I could carry on."

Fitzpatrick credits part of his rapid rise to working more closely with Mike Walker, his brother’s former coach, and his decision to trust his own instincts. "Backing himself was my best decision," he said. Beyond the trophies, he emphasizes personal growth, stating, "The success on the course doesn't define me." His current focus is on the Tour Championship in Atlanta, where he sits 24th in the FedEx Cup standings. Even if he finishes last, he is guaranteed £260,000, capping off what he calls a "life-changing" year.

With the 2027 Ryder Cup qualification period underway, both Fitzpatrick brothers have a chance to represent Europe at Adare Manor. For now, Alex is focused on finishing the season strong, having already surpassed expectations by playing in events alongside legends like Justin Thomas and Shane Lowry. "It's very surreal," he said. "I'm just trying to take it all in and make the most of it."

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