Fitzpatrick brothers set stunning record at Zurich Classic – and win would have huge implications for Alex

Alex and Matt Fitzpatrick shot a tournament-record 15-under 57 at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans to take the lead into the final round.

The brothers, who were one stroke off the pace heading into Saturday, now have a four-shot gap in the PGA Tour pairs event.

Getty

The Fitzpatricks combined for eight birdies in the back nine at TPC Louisiana, with Matt also adding an eagle at the par-five seventh.

The elder brother, ranked third in the world, said afterwards: “Amazing day.

“Probably not kind of sunk in how well we played today, if I’m honest. “It was just hole after hole.”

Matt Fitzpatrick, who is among golf’s hottest stars following his win last weekend at Harbour Town, is seeking his fifth career PGA Tour title.

The 31-year-old held off Scottie Scheffler in South Carolina, and can now become the first player since world No.1 to win in back-to-back events, with the American having toasted his Masters triumph in 2024 with victory at RBC Heritage.

However, glory at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans would arguably have much greater implications for the younger Fitzpatrick, Alex.

The 27-year-old is chasing his first PGA Tour title, which in turn would see him receive a two-year exemption on the same tour as his elder brother through 2028.

“He played brilliant golf both last two days,” Matt Fitzpatrick said of his younger sibling, who won the Indian Open last month.

“His game has really turned a corner these last few months, and I believe in him to continue that trend.”

“He’s doing all the right things, and obviously it was nice for him to have such a big impact there on the back nine.”

Getty

Fitzpatricks take four-shot lead

The English brothers posted 13 birdies in total, with each providing the best score seven times to finish the day on 30 under overall.

Alex Fitzpatrick, who is now ranked 141st in the world, added: “I didn’t really do much the first nine holes.

“I just kind of just let him do his thing. 

“Yeah, it was pretty cool to watch. You know, playing alongside my brother, who happens also to be one of the best players in the world is pretty fun. 

“When he’s playing well, it’s pretty cool to watch.”

Getty

“For me, it feels like no matter what happens tomorrow [Sunday], it’s going to be a great week regardless,” Alex continued.

“You know, just spending time with family that I don’t get to do very often is very, very nice.

“It makes it a little nicer that we’re playing good golf.”

Zurich Classic of New Orleans leaderboard