France, April 12 -- Japanese prime minister Yoshihide Suga led the messages of congratulation on Monday after Hideki Matsuyama became the first male player from the country to win a major golf title at the Masters in Augusta.

The 29-year-old claimed one of the four most prestigious crowns on the men's professional tour after completing the fourth and final round in a one-over par 73.

"It was really wonderful," said Suga. "As the coronavirus drags on, Matsuyama's achievement moved our hearts and gave us courage."

Matysuyuma went into the final day at the Augusta National course nursing a four shot lead over Justin Rose, Xander Schauffele, Will Zalatoris and Marc Leishman.

He held his nerve in the final stretch to finish one stroke ahea...