2023 3M Open: Top 10 Power Rankings at TPC Twin Cities

Hideki Matsuyama is hoping this year’s 3M Open winds up more like his debut than his last visit.

In 2019, Japan’s top golfer played well at the tournament’s inaugural event with rounds of 64-70-66-68 to finish T-7th. He was fourth in the field in strokes gained approach (7.042) and 10th tee-to-green (8.797), and hit nearly 80% of greens in regulation.

After skipping this event in 2020 and 2021, Matsuyama came back last year. At least for one round. He cited wrist soreness as the reason for withdrawing after an uncharacteristic opening round 77.

Various injuries have plagued Matsuyama off and on over the years, but it appears his health is in good stead at the moment.

The 31-year-old has finished 32nd or higher in 10 of his last 11 events. That includes last week at The Open Championship where he posted 72 or better all four days at Royal Liverpool to haul in T-13th.

Matsuyama has played nice, steady golf in 2023 but hasn’t quite gotten into title contention.

I like that to change this week in a rare opportunity for him teeing it up against a relatively weak field.

Matsuyama has been masterful with his wedges this year. The 2021 Masters champ ranks first on the PGA Tour on proximity from inside 100 yards (13’1”). He’s also first from shots from 50-125 yards from the rough (19’2”) and second from all approaches from 50-75 yards (7’11”).

Matsuyama’s 20th in total SG per round (1.052) and 15th in SG approach (.585).