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Spieth Miscues Open Door For Masters Winner Danny Willett

Danny Willett was considering not even playing in this year's Masters as his wife was expecting their first child with the due date on April 10. Fortunately for him, and unfortunately for the rest of the field, his wife gave birth to their son less than two weeks ago, which made the decision for him. Willett was the last player in the 89-man field to officially accept his invitation -- as is evidenced by his caddie wearing No. 89 -- but the only number that matters on Sunday is 1.

 

The first-time father became a first-time major champion on Sunday as Willett posted a bogey-free 5-under 67 in the final round, one of only two bogey-free rounds and three 67s on the day.

Many will point to Jordan Spieth's implosion on the 12th hole as Boy Wonder gifting the green jacket away, but Willett earned this win. His second nine performance was spectacular as he made his steady climb up the leaderboard, putting him in perfect position to pounce on Spieth's mistakes.

 

Birdies on 13 and 14 moved Willett into the lead as Spieth dunked his repeat chances in the water on 12, and a dart on 16 allowed Willett to move to 5 under. He made a nervy downhill chip on 17 look routine to get a crucial par and then played the 18th to perfection with a 3 wood down the fairway and an iron to 15 feet to leave an easy two-putt.

 

Dustin Johnson had a strong final round, finishing T-4 at 1-under for the day and for the tournament.

 

Hideki Matsuyama came into Sunday in contention, but could not find the rhythm that had helped him remain among the leaders Saturday.

 

After a disastrous Saturday, where McIlroy completely fell off pace of his partner for the day, Spieth, Rory rebounded to shoot a 1-under and finish in a tie for 10th at 1-over par for the tournament. McIlroy is still searching for that Green Jacket that would complete the career grand slam.

 

Jason Day was three back to start the day but could never get anything going, playing with Dustin Johnson, as he too, tied for tenth at 1-over.

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