TOMMY FLEETWOOD clinched his first win in America despite worrying how his 17-year-old stepson was feeling after undergoing surgery to correct a spine problem.
Fleetwood revealed the family anguish he had to deal with at The Tour Championship when he was asked why his family – who are his biggest supporters – were not there to celebrate with him when he won in Atlanta.
GettyTommy Fleetwood with his wife Clare & sons Oscar, left, Franklin, middle, and Murray, right.[/caption]
GettyHe revealed that his step-son Murray had surgery while he was in action[/caption]
The Southport star replied: “Our middle boy, Mo, had a spinal operation just over a month ago now. So they were unable to travel.
“They were in the hospital and he was recovering and they actually got home just before I did.
“He was in hospital for three and a half weeks, but he’s doing well. Here’s here this week, along with the rest of the family.”
Fleetwood said he had not really celebrated his long overdue first win on US soil – which came with a $10million (£7.4m) first prize – because he was more interested in getting back for the family reunion.
He added: “We didn’t celebrate in a classic style. I was really happy to come home.
“Like I made the flight, I got back to England., and my form of celebration was just kind of being with my family and everyone.
“We could just enjoy the moment together. We didn’t have to do anything particular to make it like a super special occasion. It was more that I could enjoy being with my wife and my kids and our family around us, and just enjoy it all.
“It was much less like a party than a family get-together. It was more all being back with each other. and enjoying what had just happened, really.”
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Fleetwood’s understated reaction – and his devotion to family values – help to explain why he is so popular on both sides of the Atlantic, despite missing out on the big prizes so often before his Tour Championship breakthrough.
He is certain to be a big crowd favourite again when he tees it up in the BMW PGA Championship tomorrow alongside defending champion Billy Horschel and fellow Englishman Justin Rose, but says he does not take his popularity for granted.
He added: “I really appreciate all the support I get. Hopefully it’s because I’m a nice person. I don’t know.
“I’ve always tried to be myself. I have always said, I’m lucky that I connect with people well.”
Rose, 45, stayed to salute Fleetwood in Atlanta and filmed the closing stages on his phone.
He insists there is no luck involved in his pal’s interaction with the fans.
GettyFleetwood won the Tour Championship[/caption]
ReutersHe bagged the £7.4million jackpot[/caption]
He commented: “Tommy has that special, likeable nature to him and engages with the crowd.
“He’s got that really — a bit cheeky, at times. He’s just who he is. He’s so authentic, I guess,
“I always have fun with Tommy. He’s a great guy to play with. It will be a very comfortable pairing. Delighted for him as well, getting that win he’s been searching for on the PGA Tour.
“I always felt like it was going to be a big one when he broke through. And I feel like this was a significant win for him, given what a great player he is.
“As for me, I’ve just been told this is my 20th time here. It’s nice when you lose count, because it’s a kind of compliment to your consistency over the years.
“It’s a bucket list event for me as someone who grew up near here, so I’m hoping for a big week myself.”
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