Which golfer became the first Asian-born Masters champion in 2021?

Hideki Matsuyama became the first Asian-born golfer to win the Masters in 2021. The Japanese star finished at 10 under par, one stroke ahead of Will Zalatoris at Augusta National.

Matsuyama’s victory was historic in two ways: he became the first Japanese player to win the Masters and the first Japanese male golfer to win a major championship. He had already established himself as one of Japan’s leading golfers, including a strong amateur career and multiple PGA Tour victories.

The 2021 tournament carried extra significance because the previous Masters had been postponed from April to November 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The event returned to its traditional spring schedule, though with reduced attendance and safety restrictions.

A memorable post-tournament image showed Matsuyama’s caddie, Shota Hayafuji, bowing toward the 18th fairway. The gesture was widely viewed as a respectful celebration of Japan’s breakthrough at Augusta.