13 photos that capture the emotion of Hideki Matsuyama’s historic Masters victory

hideki matsuyama celebrates

Hideki Matsuyama was in control the entire final round of the 2021 Masters, but when the final putt dropped, he finally let out the pent-up emotion.

Getty Images

Hideki Matsuyama is officially your 2021 Masters champion. Ten years after claiming low amateur honors at Augusta National, Matsuyama returned to Butler Cabin late on a Sunday to slip on the green jacket.

The win makes the 29-year-old the first Japanese man to win a major championship and elevates him to instant celebrity status in his home country. Check out the 13 photos below to relive his winning moment.

hideki matsuyama wipes away tears
A champion at last. Getty Images
hideki matsuyama waves
Just after the winning putt dropped. Getty Images
xnader and hideki embrace
Xander Schauffele did his best to claim his first major championship, but Matsuyama was too strong. Getty Images
hideki matsuyama cries
The emotions of winning the green jacket finally hit. Getty Images
The emotions continue to flow. Getty Images
hideki matsuyama waves
The champ gives thanks to the adoring patrons. Getty Images
hideki matsuyama walks off the green
There’s nothing like walking off the 18th green as a champion. Getty Images
hideki matsuyama sits in a chair
Hideki Matsuyama sits waiting for the green jacket. Getty Images
hideki matsuyama and dj smile
Just a couple of Masters champs. Getty Images
hideki matsuyama slips on the green jacket.
Hideki Matsuyama slips on the green jacket. Getty Images
hideki matsuyam holds trophy
Hideki Matsuyama after being presented with the Masters Trophy. Getty Images
hideki matsuyama celebrates
A fitting champion. Getty Images

Zephyr Melton

Golf.com Editor

Zephyr Melton is an assistant editor for GOLF.com where he spends his days blogging, producing and editing. Prior to joining the team at GOLF, he attended the University of Texas followed by stops with the Texas Golf Association, Team USA, the Green Bay Packers and the PGA Tour. He assists on all things instruction and covers amateur and women’s golf. He can be reached at zephyr_melton@golf.com.