It's easy for a golfer to draw inspiration from a quote when the quote is drawn on the golfer.
Golf fans watching the 2024 U.S. Open might notice there is some ink on the hands of French golfer Matthiew Pavon, one of the leaders at Pinehurst Resort and Country Club. Pavon's right hand in particular features a prominent tattoo.
There's a story in almost every tattoo. What is the reason behind Pavon's ink? Sporting News takes a look.
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What is the tattoo on Matthieu Pavon's hand?
Pavon has a bit of ink on both hands, but it's the tattoo on the back of his right hand that garners most of the attention.
"The saliva that flows now will become the tears of joy tomorrow," the tattoo reads.
Pavon's tattoo is in English despite Pavon hailing from Toulouse, France. The quote comes from the walls of the Harvard University library — and while Pavon doesn't have a connection to the university, he found the line to be meaningful.
"This is why I work hard every day to get those tears back when I lift the trophy," Pavon said, per the PGA Tour.
The tattoo isn't the only place Pavon has written inspirational or motivational quotes. He reportedly writes down thoughts that he has on which to reflect back and draw inspiration.
"It's all about motivations. For me, it's really important to have everything clear in my mind," Pavon said, per USA Today. "Since I won in Spain last year, I write down some notes in my book which bring me back to the present moment. You know how it is on the golf course, sometimes your head flies away a little bit and you have to get back to the present moment to refocus yourself. Sentences like they are telling me why I play golf, why I'm here. ... they give me a little extra confidence."
Pavon has found success on the PGA Tour, having won the 2024 Farmers Insurance Open in January. He tied for 12th in the 2024 Masters, his second time making the cut at a major championship. Pavon previously tied for 25th in the 2018 U.S. Open.
