Other golfers could learn from admirable Tommy Fleetwood

Tommy Fleetwood did nothing at the FedEx St. Jude Championship to dispel his reputation as a Sunday choker, but he proved once again he's a classy professional even in defeat. Other players on the PGA Tour (*cough cough* Rory McIlroy) could learn a thing or two from his admirable Ryder Cup teammate. 

Immediately after going 1-over in his final three holes to blow another back-nine lead at TPC Southwind, Fleetwood didn't shy away from the criticisms. Instead, he politely agreed to an on-camera interview with NBC's Damon Hack while his emotions were still running high. 

"Did a lot of good things today, really," Fleetwood said. "Obviously, right at the end again. I’m getting close. I think that’s the good side of it. I think I’m getting really close. Again, on that back nine, managed to get myself ahead. Played some really good golf, putted really well. Obviously, Justin [Rose] and J.J. [Spaun] have done great there, and I just didn’t quite do enough. You get to those last three holes. It’s the Par 5 16th and the bogey on 17. I don’t know, I’m obviously disappointed. Again, when you reflect, look at the positives. I was right in there with a chance. It’s hard, right? It's hard to win. There are so many good players. I was next to somebody who was playing some really great golf there. Yeah, just didn’t get it done."

After pouring his heart out on national television, Fleetwood made his way over to the fans and signed autographs with a big smile on his face. He understands that this could be the best experience of these kids' lives, and he wants to make it special for them, even if he has just endured one of the most disappointing moments of his career. 

For all the fans and media pundits who poked fun at Fleetwood for squandering another Sunday lead, there were just as many commending him for facing the music afterward.