Fitzpatrick defends, and says ‘I didn’t deserve a pick’

Matt Fitzpatrick became the first man since Seve Ballesteros to defend the Omega European Masters – and then admitted he didn’t deserve a Ryder Cup pick from Thomas Bjorn.

The Englishman admitted at Crans Sur Sierre that he wasn’t expecting a pick, but he bounced back in spectacular style, defending the title he won 12 months ago.

“I didn’t play well enough this summer, it’s as simple as that,” said Fitzpatrick, who birdied the 18th hole twice in 20 minutes to beat Lucas Bjerregaard on the first play-off hole after both had finished regulation play on 17 under.

“I don’t hold anything against Thomas for not picking me, and I completely understand why he has gone for experience because it is vital in the Ryder Cup.”

Fitzpatrick had not won on the European Tour since winning last time in the Alps

“This is what I wanted to achieve this season – another win,” said Fitzpatrick, who clinched his fifth Tour title just eight days after his 23rd birthday

“To get it here again is so special and to get my fifth is amazing. I love this place.

“That was tough, that was really tough. Of all my wins I’d say that was definitely the most difficult. I didn’t have my A-game today, but I managed to grind it out. I made some crucial birdies coming in and I’m delighted. This is one of my best.

“Last time was a lot different, I felt like I was playing okay but it was just make par, make par, make par. For whatever reason this year, a change of attitude, I definitely feel like I’m playing way better right now than I was this time last year.”