'One Jacket Is Getting a Little Lonely': Patrick Reed Sends Quiet Warning Ahead of the Masters

Reed believes international travel has refined his skills, having competed in 28 countries since 2022. “I think that’s just going to help me when I come back and play against these guys,” he remarked during the interview.

He has also focused heavily on his physical conditioning during a recent three-week break from competition. Being able to spend more time with his family and kids has given him a necessary recharge ahead of the Masters.

Reed Reflects on Defending the Title and Tiger’s Absence

The 2018 winner stressed that he is no longer completely dependent on his short game skills to get him out of trouble. “Rather than leaning on the short game to save me, now I use it as a weapon because I hit the ball better,” he explained.

Reed further elaborated on his excitement to return to the PGA TOUR. “I really just kind of was sitting back and realizing that I wanted to get back and not only join — have an opportunity back on the PGA TOUR, but get back to the traditional way of golf and playing,” he said.

Speaking about the tournament’s environment, Reed noted the absence of previous champions such as Tiger Woods. “Let’s be honest, without Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson in the events, in golf, when they both step away, honestly I feel it hurts the game of golf,” he noted.

Recalling the unique experience of defending his title seven years ago, Reed pointed out that although he had four top-10 results since then, even a third-place finish last year, he had never felt underestimated as a past winner.