Is the Joy of Others More Important Than Winning?

Tommy Fleetwood, the English golfer, achieved his first PGA Tour victory at the Tour Championship in Atlanta, marking a significant milestone in his career after 164 attempts. His success has garnered attention and excitement as he prepares for the prestigious BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, a key event leading up to the Ryder Cup.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Tommy Fleetwood won his first PGA Tour title at the Tour Championship.
• He celebrated his victory with family after overcoming personal challenges.
• The BMW PGA Championship is pivotal for Fleetwood's upcoming Ryder Cup preparations.
• Fleetwood aims to build on his recent success at Wentworth.
• He expresses excitement about competing in front of home fans.

Tommy Fleetwood's Breakthrough Victory

Tommy Fleetwood's victory at the Tour Championship in Atlanta has been a long time coming. After 164 tournaments on the PGA Tour, his triumph not only secured him a hefty winner's cheque of $10 million (£7.4 million) but also solidified his status among the golfing elite. The win was celebrated widely, with congratulations pouring in from sports icons like Tiger Woods and LeBron James.

Fleetwood’s words reflect the magnitude of this achievement: “Winning's great, but it's only as great as the people that you share it with and appreciate it.” This sentiment captures the essence of Fleetwood’s journey, a path filled with challenges and perseverance.

The Personal Touch Behind the Victory

The victory was bittersweet for Fleetwood, who had to navigate personal challenges during the lead-up. His family could not attend the Tour Championship, as his stepson Murray was recovering from back surgery, and his middle son Mo had undergone a spinal operation shortly before the event. Fleetwood revealed that Murray is now recovering well and will be present at Wentworth to support him.

Preparations for the BMW PGA Championship

As Fleetwood returns to competitive golf, he is focusing on the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, which takes place from 11-14 September. This tournament holds significant importance not just as a prestigious event in its own right but also as a key preparation for the upcoming Ryder Cup at Bethpage in New York.

Fleetwood’s performance in the BMW PGA Championship could serve as a barometer for his form as he aims to contribute to Europe's Ryder Cup defence. He noted, “We are firmly in the middle of Ryder Cup season,” indicating the gravity of the upcoming matches and the importance of team dynamics.

Looking Ahead: Ryder Cup Aspirations

The Ryder Cup is a pinnacle event in golf, and for Fleetwood, it represents an opportunity to showcase his skills on an international stage. With this being his fourth Ryder Cup, Fleetwood is well aware of the pressure and excitement that comes with it. He expressed his anticipation for the tournament and the unique challenge of facing an American crowd at Bethpage.

“It’s going to be an experience that I’ve definitely never had before,” Fleetwood remarked, signalling his readiness to embrace the challenge. The Ryder Cup format, which pits Europe against the USA, often brings a unique atmosphere, especially with the home crowd's fervour. Fleetwood's popularity among fans suggests he may receive a warm welcome, but he also acknowledges the potential for hostility.

Current Form and Goals

Fleetwood’s recent performance has been commendable, with eight top-10 finishes in 2025, including a joint third and a fourth place in the PGA Tour's play-off events. This consistent form indicates that he is in a strong position as he approaches the BMW PGA Championship. Fleetwood aims to convert his good form into a victory at Wentworth, a significant step towards enhancing his standing in the DP World Tour's Race to Dubai.

“I have never really had a shot at it coming down the stretch on a Sunday,” he stated, highlighting his desire to be competitive in this prestigious event. His excitement about the BMW PGA Championship is palpable, especially with the potential support from the home crowd, which he hopes will buoy him during the tournament.

The Significance of the BMW PGA Championship

The BMW PGA Championship is not only a showcase for top golf talent but also a crucial event in the calendar for many players, including Fleetwood. It provides an opportunity for players to fine-tune their skills and strategies ahead of the Ryder Cup. Moreover, the event offers a chance for Fleetwood to reclaim some momentum in the Race to Dubai, where he is currently positioned at 94th place.

Victory at Wentworth would significantly improve his standing, providing both financial benefits and valuable ranking points. Fleetwood's determination to perform well is evident as he prepares rigorously for this challenge.

Conclusion

Tommy Fleetwood's journey from a long-awaited PGA Tour victory to the upcoming BMW PGA Championship illustrates the resilience and dedication that characterises professional golf. As he balances personal challenges with competitive aspirations, Fleetwood is poised to make a significant impact in the weeks ahead. With the Ryder Cup on the horizon, every stroke counts, and Fleetwood's focus and commitment will be crucial in navigating this pivotal moment in his career.

As the excitement builds around both the BMW PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup, the world will be watching to see how Fleetwood harnesses his newfound momentum. Will he be able to translate his recent success into another victory on home soil? Only time will tell as the golfing season unfolds. #TommyFleetwood #BMVPGAChampionship #RyderCup

FAQs

When did Tommy Fleetwood achieve his first PGA Tour win?

Tommy Fleetwood won his first PGA Tour title at the Tour Championship on 27 August 2023 after 164 attempts.

What is the BMW PGA Championship?

The BMW PGA Championship is a prestigious golf tournament, part of the DP World Tour, held annually at Wentworth, Surrey, drawing top players from around the world.

How does the Ryder Cup affect Fleetwood's performance?

The Ryder Cup is a significant event for Fleetwood, shaping his preparation and focus as he aims to contribute to Europe's success against the USA.

What challenges did Fleetwood face before his Tour Championship victory?

Fleetwood faced personal challenges, including family health issues, which prevented them from attending the Tour Championship during his victory.

What are Fleetwood's goals for the BMW PGA Championship?

Fleetwood aims to build on his recent success, improve his ranking in the Race to Dubai, and perform well in front of home fans at the BMW PGA Championship.