Hideki Matsuyama knew a major title wouldn't come easy, but after coming so close and letting victory slip through his hands it was harder to accept the fact he didn't come out on top in the season's final major.
Matsuyama looked on course to become the first male Japanese major champion until he struggled down the stretch in the final round of the PGA Championship and slumped to a 72, finishing three shots behind first-time major winner Justin Thomas at 5-under 279.
The 25-year-old had squatted down and covered his face with his hands to hide his tears during a television interview and needed some time to regain his composure before speaking to reporters.