HOLMES Chapel resident Tommy Fleetwood admitted his experience at last week’s Player’s Championship was “odd” as his early challenge for victory faded.

The European Ryder Cup star led the tournament – known widely as golf’s “fifth major” – after the first round having shot a sparkling, six-under-par round of 66 at TPC Sawgrass in Florida.

However, he could not find the same kind of form across the remainder of the weather-delayed tournament.

He shot a one-over-par 73 in the second round before going round level-par in the final two rounds to finish on five-under-par, meaning he was tied for 22nd place.

Australia’s Cameron Smith was the eventual winner of the PGA Tour’s flagship event, which was heavily impacted by poor weather and finished later than scheduled on Monday.

"It's just been odd," Fleetwood said.

"I've never been part of a tournament that's had delays like this, and it's just strange how long the week feels, and it's actually not been that long.

"But it's been nice to have the family here. I think they've definitely made a massive difference, rather than waiting around on your own and not having much to do."

Fleetwood, 31, remains in Florida for his next tournament – the Valspar Championship at the Copperhead Course near Tampa.