Do you remember who was the runner up?
Jordan Spieth’s recovery to claim his third Major will stay in the memory for a long time but for how long will we remember who was the runner up?
Matt Kuchar is arguably the second most popular golfer in the USPGA after Lefty Michelson so his following will safeguard his legacy. His reputation is that of a cash machine top ten finisher who has never won a Major and at 39 never will.
He had his chance when Jordan Spieth faltered on the front nine and after 13 holes Kuchar was winning by one stroke. Remarkably after hitting his drive 150 yards off the fairway he only made a bogey which he followed with 3 birdies and an eagle.
What would have Kuchar be thinking for 17 minutes yards ahead of Spieth on the 13th whilst Spieth, cool as a cucumber, worked out his options? He might have pondered his shot but surely he would be speculating the degree of trouble of Spieth and whether he would claim his first trophy?
In conclusion, Kuchar played consistently superb golf and his role in an enthralling Open. He deserved to be remembered just as Michelson was last year and 41 years ago at Turnberry in the duel in the sun Jack Nicklaus lost to Tom Watson.
