Tiger Woods won the 83rd Masters on Sunday, capturing his 15th major title to cement an epic return from scandal and injuries that once threatened his career.

Ending an 11-year major drought, the 43-year-old American superstar -- who underwent spinal fusion in 2017 fearing chronic back pain would deny him life's simple joys much less golf wins -- seized his first major title since the 2008 US Open.

Woods fired a final-round two-under par 70 to finish on 13-under 275 for a one-shot victory to capture a $2.07 million (1.82 million euros) top prize and the green jacket symbolizing Masters supremacy.

An all-American trio of three-time major winner Brooks Koepka, world number two Dustin Johnson and Xander Schauffele shared second on 276.

"I don't know if there are words -- I'm sure he's ecstatic about it," Koepka said. "To have the injuries and come back and do what he has done, it has been tremendous to watch."

It was the fifth Masters title for Woods, his first since 2005, and it moved him three shy of the all-time record 18 majors won by Jack Nicklaus.

"A big well done from me to Tiger," Nicklaus told telecaster CBS. "I'm so happy for him and for the game of golf this is so fantastic."

The triumph was the first major victory for Woods when he did not lead after 54 holes, having started the day two adrift of reigning British Open champion Francesco Molinari.

Woods served notice he had returned to form by contending last year at the British Open and PGA before snapping a five-year title drought by capturing the Tour Championship.

Racing to finish before an oncoming thunderstorm, players created their own electric atmosphere, spectators roaring repeatedly for sensational shotmaking on one of golf's iconic stages at Augusta National, where Woods won his first major title in 1997.

Fans chant Tiger's name

Woods then drove the green in two at the par-5 15th and tapped in for birdie to seize the lead alone at 13-under par then sank a four-foot birdie putt at the par-3 16th to stretch his advantage to two shots with two holes remaining.

Woods parred 17 and walked up to the 18th green to crowds 20-people deep applauding&nbsp;with delight, but he kept a stoic visage until the job was complete, a tap-in for bogey followed by a fist pump and a scream of joy in celebration of a fairytale fightback like few others in sporting history.

Just off the 18th green, Woods hugged his mother as he had his late father Earl in 1997 and held his children, his back more than up to the task as the crowd chanted his name, a rare tribute, and rivals congratulated him as he entered the clubhouse.

Woods, one shy of matching Nicklaus for the most career Masters wins, won his 81st career US PGA victory, one shy of the all-time record held by Sam Snead.

He also set a record for the longest gap between Masters triumphs, the 14-year spread one year longer than the old mark set by South African Gary Player from 1961 to 1974.

It completes a fairytale comeback to the pinnacle of golf for Woods, whose career imploded after a 2009 sex scandal before unraveling amid injuries and personal problems.

Logjam of late leaders

After battling to overhaul 54-hole leader Francesco Molinari of Italy, Woods&nbsp;birdied the par-5 13th to join a lead pack of five at 12-under.

Woods, Molinari, Xander Schauffele, Brooks Kopeka and Dustin Johnson -- with Australian Jason Day in the clubhouse on 11-under and Patrick Cantlay, who also hit 12-under, foiled by bogeys at 16 and 17.

Woods and Molinari, in the last trio, each birdied the par-5 13th to reach 12-under while Johnson reeled off three consecutive birdies, the last on an 11-foot putt at 17, to make 12-under.

Schauffele got there on birdies at 14 and 15 and Koepka by answering a double bogey at the par-3 12th with an eagle at 13 and birdie at 15.

None could go lower except Woods, with Molinari undone at the par-5 15th when his approach struck a tree limb and his chip barely clung to the side of a damp slope on the way to a double-bogey disaster.

Augusta National moved the final round to Sunday morning due to storms expected to arrive in the afternoon, when leaders would typically be battling for the title.

The Masters, which has not had a Monday conclusion since 1983, decided to cancel its green jacket ceremony at the 18th green in order to hurry spectators to the exits faster.

Tiger Woods won the 83rd Masters on Sunday, capturing his 15th major title to cement an epic return from scandal and injuries that once threatened his career. Ending an 11-year major drought, the 43-year-old American superstar -- who underwent spinal fusion in 2017 fearing chronic back pain would deny him life's simple joys much less golf wins -- seized his first major title since the 2008 US Open.

Tiger Woods won the 83rd Masters on Sunday, capturing his 15th major title to cement an epic return from scandal and injuries that once threatened his career. Ending an 11-year major drought, the 43-year-old American superstar -- who underwent spinal fusion in 2017 fearing chronic back pain would deny him life's simple joys much less golf wins -- seized his first major title since the 2008 US Open. Woods fired a final-round two-under par 70 to finish on 13-under 275 for a one-shot victory to capture a $2.07 million (1.82 million euros) top prize and the green jacket symbolizing Masters supremacy. An all-American trio of three-time major winner Brooks Koepka, world number two Dustin Johnson and Xander Schauffele shared second on 276. "I don't know if there are words -- I'm sure he's ecstatic about it," Koepka said. "To have the injuries and come back and do what he has done, it has been tremendous to watch." It was the fifth Masters title for Woods, his first since 2005, and it moved him three shy of the all-time record 18 majors won by Jack Nicklaus. "A big well done from me to Tiger," Nicklaus told telecaster CBS. "I'm so happy for him and for the game of golf this is so fantastic." The triumph was the first major victory for Woods when he did not lead after 54 holes, having started the day two adrift of reigning British Open champion Francesco Molinari. Woods served notice he had returned to form by contending last year at the British Open and PGA before snapping a five-year title drought by capturing the Tour Championship. Racing to finish before an oncoming thunderstorm, players created their own electric atmosphere, spectators roaring repeatedly for sensational shotmaking on one of golf's iconic stages at Augusta National, where Woods won his first major title in 1997. Fans chant Tiger's name Woods then drove the green in two at the par-5 15th and tapped in for birdie to seize the lead alone at 13-under par then sank a four-foot birdie putt at the par-3 16th to stretch his advantage to two shots with two holes remaining. Woods parred 17 and walked up to the 18th green to crowds 20-people deep applauding with delight, but he kept a stoic visage until the job was complete, a tap-in for bogey followed by a fist pump and a scream of joy in celebration of a fairytale fightback like few others in sporting history. Just off the 18th green, Woods hugged his mother as he had his late father Earl in 1997 and held his children, his back more than up to the task as the crowd chanted his name, a rare tribute, and rivals congratulated him as he entered the clubhouse. Woods, one shy of matching Nicklaus for the most career Masters wins, won his 81st career US PGA victory, one shy of the all-time record held by Sam Snead. He also set a record for the longest gap between Masters triumphs, the 14-year spread one year longer than the old mark set by South African Gary Player from 1961 to 1974. It completes a fairytale comeback to the pinnacle of golf for Woods, whose career imploded after a 2009 sex scandal before unraveling amid injuries and personal problems. Logjam of late leaders After battling to overhaul 54-hole leader Francesco Molinari of Italy, Woods birdied the par-5 13th to join a lead pack of five at 12-under. Woods, Molinari, Xander Schauffele, Brooks Kopeka and Dustin Johnson -- with Australian Jason Day in the clubhouse on 11-under and Patrick Cantlay, who also hit 12-under, foiled by bogeys at 16 and 17. Woods and Molinari, in the last trio, each birdied the par-5 13th to reach 12-under while Johnson reeled off three consecutive birdies, the last on an 11-foot putt at 17, to make 12-under. Schauffele got there on birdies at 14 and 15 and Koepka by answering a double bogey at the par-3 12th with an eagle at 13 and birdie at 15. None could go lower except Woods, with Molinari undone at the par-5 15th when his approach struck a tree limb and his chip barely clung to the side of a damp slope on the way to a double-bogey disaster. Augusta National moved the final round to Sunday morning due to storms expected to arrive in the afternoon, when leaders would typically be battling for the title. The Masters, which has not had a Monday conclusion since 1983, decided to cancel its green jacket ceremony at the 18th green in order to hurry spectators to the exits faster.

Tiger Woods wins 15th major title with spectacular Masters victory

Former world number one and Spain's tennis star Rafael Nadal said that golfer Tiger Woods is his favourite sportsperson. Rafa admires the hard work that Tiger Woods put in to return to the top of golf by winning the 2019 Masters on Sunday.&nbsp;

Woods capped his remarkable comeback from injuries and personal problems with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-wins-15th-major-title-with-spectacular-masters-victory-210438">victory at the Masters</a>. He captured the green jacket by one stroke for his 15th major title -- but the first since 2008.&nbsp;

Woods had not won at Augusta National since 2005.

He underwent spinal fusion in 2017 fearing chronic back pain would deny him life's simple joys but it simply came out wrong when he fired a final-round two-under par 70 to finish on 13-under 275 for a one-shot victory.&nbsp;

On Woods' terrific victory, Nadal said, "He's probably my favourite sportsman in the world since a long time ago. I am a big fan of his."

Nadal further added, "There have been some tough years for him and you know I can't be more happy about the victory of yesterday."

"If you imagine all the processes and hard work he had to do to be back on a golf course. It's so difficult - all the things that he did. And finally win a grand slam again, in Augusta, probably his favourite one, means everything."&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal looked ahead to the Monte Carlo Masters and the defending champion said every tournament was like a comeback at the moment, as a result of his troublesome injury history.&nbsp;

Former world number one and Spain's tennis star Rafael Nadal said that golfer Tiger Woods is his favourite sportsperson. Rafa admires the hard work that Tiger Woods put in to return to the top of golf by winning the 2019 Masters on Sunday.

Former world number one and Spain's tennis star Rafael Nadal said that golfer Tiger Woods is his favourite sportsperson. Rafa admires the hard work that Tiger Woods put in to return to the top of golf by winning the 2019 Masters on Sunday. Woods capped his remarkable comeback from injuries and personal problems with a victory at the Masters. He captured the green jacket by one stroke for his 15th major title -- but the first since 2008. Woods had not won at Augusta National since 2005. He underwent spinal fusion in 2017 fearing chronic back pain would deny him life's simple joys but it simply came out wrong when he fired a final-round two-under par 70 to finish on 13-under 275 for a one-shot victory. On Woods' terrific victory, Nadal said, "He's probably my favourite sportsman in the world since a long time ago. I am a big fan of his." Nadal further added, "There have been some tough years for him and you know I can't be more happy about the victory of yesterday." "If you imagine all the processes and hard work he had to do to be back on a golf course. It's so difficult - all the things that he did. And finally win a grand slam again, in Augusta, probably his favourite one, means everything." Rafael Nadal looked ahead to the Monte Carlo Masters and the defending champion said every tournament was like a comeback at the moment, as a result of his troublesome injury history.

'Tiger is my favourite sportsman,' says tennis star Rafael Nadal

Greatest comebacks in sports

Woods says Masters win is "something I'll never, ever forget." Watch complete video to know more.

Woods says Masters win is 'something I'll never, ever forget'

Rory McIlroy is in fearsome form as he arrives at Augusta National chasing a rare career Grand Slam, but a renewed Tiger Woods could have something to say about the Northern Ireland star's bid for a breakthrough Masters win.

"I don't think I've ever started a season this well in terms of finishes, and even stats&nbsp;wise, looking at all my stats, they are right up there with some of the best years that I've had," said McIlroy, whose seven top-10 finishes in seven starts this year include a victory at the US PGA Tour's prestigious Players Championship in March.

He owns top-10 Masters finishes the past four years, including a tie for fifth behind American Patrick Reed last year, and with more than a decade of experience on a course where local know-how is key, says there's no reason he can't become the sixth man to win all four of golf's major professional titles.

"I've shot enough good scores around here over the years that if I can put my best effort forward, I'm going to have a good chance to do well here," McIlroy said.

Plenty of his peers agree.

"Rory is playing unbelievable golf," said Spain's Jon Rahm. "I mean, he's playing the best golf he has played in a long time ... Really good golf and it seems like his putting has been lot better. If Rory is hitting the ball the way he is, and he putts good, he's tough to beat."

Hard to handicap

Soaking rain on Monday and Tuesday could heighten long-hitting McIlroy's chances, making the course play longer. The diminished practice time could also play in favor of experienced Masters campaigners.

Rahm noted the difficulty of handicapping the first major championship of the year.

Each of the last four winners -- and seven of the last eight -- have been first-time major winners, a trend Rahm certainly hopes to continue.

But with experience at a premium, multiple winners including Woods, Phil Mickelson and Bubba Watson must always be judged a threat.

World number one Justin Rose and second-ranked Dustin Johnson will be aiming to bulk up resumes highlighted by one US Open win apiece and fourth-ranked Brooks Koepka, the reigning US Open and PGA Champion, has a chance to become the third golfer of the modern era to capture three of four consecutive majors.

"There's so many different ways to do it and there's so many different things that you can do right," Rahm said. "It's one of those weeks where anybody can win at any given point."

And this year, that emphatically includes Woods, who carries not just the hope he had last year -- in his first Masters since spinal fusion surgery -- but real belief that he can claim a fifth green jacket.

"I just feel like I've improved a lot over the past 12, 14 months," said Woods, whose injury return was in its embryonic stages when he teed it up last year.&nbsp;

From a tie for 32nd, he would go on to contend in two majors and win the US PGA Tour championship and says he's "proven to myself that I can play at this level again".

Woods, 43, admits he would never have foreseen the major drought that has followed his 14th major victory at the 2008 US Open.

"After I won my 14th, I felt like I still had plenty more major championships that I could win, but unfortunately I just didn't do it," he said. "I put myself there with chances on the back nine on various Sundays and just haven't done it.

"Hopefully this year, I put myself there again and, hopefully, I'll get it done."

Rory McIlroy is in fearsome form as he arrives at Augusta National chasing a rare career Grand Slam, but a renewed Tiger Woods could have something to say about the Northern Ireland star's bid for a breakthrough Masters win.

Rory McIlroy is in fearsome form as he arrives at Augusta National chasing a rare career Grand Slam, but a renewed Tiger Woods could have something to say about the Northern Ireland star's bid for a breakthrough Masters win. "I don't think I've ever started a season this well in terms of finishes, and even stats wise, looking at all my stats, they are right up there with some of the best years that I've had," said McIlroy, whose seven top-10 finishes in seven starts this year include a victory at the US PGA Tour's prestigious Players Championship in March. He owns top-10 Masters finishes the past four years, including a tie for fifth behind American Patrick Reed last year, and with more than a decade of experience on a course where local know-how is key, says there's no reason he can't become the sixth man to win all four of golf's major professional titles. "I've shot enough good scores around here over the years that if I can put my best effort forward, I'm going to have a good chance to do well here," McIlroy said. Plenty of his peers agree. "Rory is playing unbelievable golf," said Spain's Jon Rahm. "I mean, he's playing the best golf he has played in a long time ... Really good golf and it seems like his putting has been lot better. If Rory is hitting the ball the way he is, and he putts good, he's tough to beat." Hard to handicap Soaking rain on Monday and Tuesday could heighten long-hitting McIlroy's chances, making the course play longer. The diminished practice time could also play in favor of experienced Masters campaigners. Rahm noted the difficulty of handicapping the first major championship of the year. Each of the last four winners -- and seven of the last eight -- have been first-time major winners, a trend Rahm certainly hopes to continue. But with experience at a premium, multiple winners including Woods, Phil Mickelson and Bubba Watson must always be judged a threat. World number one Justin Rose and second-ranked Dustin Johnson will be aiming to bulk up resumes highlighted by one US Open win apiece and fourth-ranked Brooks Koepka, the reigning US Open and PGA Champion, has a chance to become the third golfer of the modern era to capture three of four consecutive majors. "There's so many different ways to do it and there's so many different things that you can do right," Rahm said. "It's one of those weeks where anybody can win at any given point." And this year, that emphatically includes Woods, who carries not just the hope he had last year -- in his first Masters since spinal fusion surgery -- but real belief that he can claim a fifth green jacket. "I just feel like I've improved a lot over the past 12, 14 months," said Woods, whose injury return was in its embryonic stages when he teed it up last year. From a tie for 32nd, he would go on to contend in two majors and win the US PGA Tour championship and says he's "proven to myself that I can play at this level again". Woods, 43, admits he would never have foreseen the major drought that has followed his 14th major victory at the 2008 US Open. "After I won my 14th, I felt like I still had plenty more major championships that I could win, but unfortunately I just didn't do it," he said. "I put myself there with chances on the back nine on various Sundays and just haven't done it. "Hopefully this year, I put myself there again and, hopefully, I'll get it done."

Rory McIlroy powers into Masters with Tiger Woods among many poised to pounce

For<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/woodward-book-on-white-house-in-disarray-out-today-trump-says-its-a-joke-164996&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjDjbaKrrjhAhXb7HMBHfJMA4gQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw36_L94-qKjVgnokU4gfU6G"> Donald Trump</a>, the rigid rules of golf are flexible, allowing for the kick of a wayward ball into a better location, skipping a putt that looks close enough. What's the big deal?

That is according to Rick Reilly, a former Sports Illustrated columnist who has just written the book "Commander in Cheat," which alleges Trump is guilty of all sorts of sins on the golf course.

In an interview with Reuters on Thursday, Reilly laid out a number of accusations to support his view that the US&nbsp; president's golf game is, well, not par for the course, particularly for a president who owns a string of golf resorts.

Among the charges: Playing with pros Tiger Woods, Dustin Johnson and Brad Faxon in November 2017, Trump hit two balls in the water on one hole but didn't charge himself any penalty strokes.

The pros all saw it happen but just grinned their way through it. Why didn't they call him out for the violation?

"Because he's so fun and we want our own stories to tell about the cheating," Reilly said he was told.

At Winged Foot, a famous golf club in Westchester County, New York, Trump had a reputation among the caddies for kicking his ball into a better position so often that they called him "Pele," the former soccer star, Reilly said.

While Trump has in the past claimed a golf handicap of 2.8, meaning he typically will average three strokes over par over 18 holes, his handicap is actually about 10, said Reilly.

"This idea that Donald Trump is a great golfer - he's not," said Reilly. "He's good. He’s a 72-year-old man who’s a 10 handicap. That’s pretty good. But why isn’t that good enough?"

One time Democrat Hillary Clinton, who Trump defeated in the 2016 election, had her brother, Hugh Rodham, to play around at Winged Foot but showed up wearing shorts and was told he had to have long pants, Reilly said.

Rodham ended up wearing Trump's rain pants in order to meet the dress code and gave them back when he was done. This didn't sit well with Trump when he found out about it.

"Somebody tells Trump this and he was so mad he made the club buy him a whole new rain suit," said Reilly.

Reilly said the point of the book is to show what Trump is really like behind the scenes.

"Golf is a window into a guy’s soul and this gives a pretty good view of the guy," he said.

The White House declined to comment.

For Donald Trump, the rigid rules of golf are flexible, allowing for the kick of a wayward ball into a better location, skipping a putt that looks close enough. What's the big deal?

For Donald Trump, the rigid rules of golf are flexible, allowing for the kick of a wayward ball into a better location, skipping a putt that looks close enough. What's the big deal? That is according to Rick Reilly, a former Sports Illustrated columnist who has just written the book "Commander in Cheat," which alleges Trump is guilty of all sorts of sins on the golf course. In an interview with Reuters on Thursday, Reilly laid out a number of accusations to support his view that the US president's golf game is, well, not par for the course, particularly for a president who owns a string of golf resorts. Among the charges: Playing with pros Tiger Woods, Dustin Johnson and Brad Faxon in November 2017, Trump hit two balls in the water on one hole but didn't charge himself any penalty strokes. The pros all saw it happen but just grinned their way through it. Why didn't they call him out for the violation? "Because he's so fun and we want our own stories to tell about the cheating," Reilly said he was told. At Winged Foot, a famous golf club in Westchester County, New York, Trump had a reputation among the caddies for kicking his ball into a better position so often that they called him "Pele," the former soccer star, Reilly said. While Trump has in the past claimed a golf handicap of 2.8, meaning he typically will average three strokes over par over 18 holes, his handicap is actually about 10, said Reilly. "This idea that Donald Trump is a great golfer - he's not," said Reilly. "He's good. He’s a 72-year-old man who’s a 10 handicap. That’s pretty good. But why isn’t that good enough?" One time Democrat Hillary Clinton, who Trump defeated in the 2016 election, had her brother, Hugh Rodham, to play around at Winged Foot but showed up wearing shorts and was told he had to have long pants, Reilly said. Rodham ended up wearing Trump's rain pants in order to meet the dress code and gave them back when he was done. This didn't sit well with Trump when he found out about it. "Somebody tells Trump this and he was so mad he made the club buy him a whole new rain suit," said Reilly. Reilly said the point of the book is to show what Trump is really like behind the scenes. "Golf is a window into a guy’s soul and this gives a pretty good view of the guy," he said. The White House declined to comment.

Rick Reilly describes Trump, loose with the rules in his book 'Commander in Cheat'

A giant&nbsp;alligator was spotted&nbsp;dawdling&nbsp;onto a golf course in Georgia, the United States on a bright&nbsp;sunny day.&nbsp;

He was filmed&nbsp;interrupting a game of golf before dipping into a water feature at The Club golf course in Savannah Harbor.&nbsp;

The reptile&nbsp;even scared one of the golfers, who was seen in the video retrieving his putter on the far side of the hole.&nbsp;

Ed Vance, who&nbsp;took the footage, said that alligators are a common occurrence on the course, however, this particular&nbsp;alligator's size stood out.&nbsp;

"When I noticed how big this one was I instinctively reached into my golf bag, grabbed my phone and started filming it. I thought my four-year-old son would love it. We were all in awe of how massive it was," he said.

He added, "Once it got on the green you could hear the "thud" with every step...like you would expect to hear from a dinosaur or something!"

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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MASSIVE 9-foot alligator surprises these Savannah golfers and plops down on the 17th hole. 😲😲😲😲😲😲 
 
Video credit: Ed Vance/FB <a href="https://t.co/Yk59k42okF">pic.twitter.com/Yk59k42okF</a>
— Everything Georgia (@GAFollowers) <a href="https://twitter.com/GAFollowers/status/1110995601293017091?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, there are approximately 200,000-250,000&nbsp;alligators in the state of Georgia.&nbsp;

A giant alligator was spotted dawdling onto a golf course in Georgia, the United States on a bright sunny day. He was filmed interrupting a game of golf before dipping into a water feature at The Club golf course in Savannah Harbor.

A giant alligator was spotted dawdling onto a golf course in Georgia, the United States on a bright sunny day. He was filmed interrupting a game of golf before dipping into a water feature at The Club golf course in Savannah Harbor. The reptile even scared one of the golfers, who was seen in the video retrieving his putter on the far side of the hole. Ed Vance, who took the footage, said that alligators are a common occurrence on the course, however, this particular alligator's size stood out. "When I noticed how big this one was I instinctively reached into my golf bag, grabbed my phone and started filming it. I thought my four-year-old son would love it. We were all in awe of how massive it was," he said. He added, "Once it got on the green you could hear the "thud" with every step...like you would expect to hear from a dinosaur or something!" Watch the video: MASSIVE 9-foot alligator surprises these Savannah golfers and plops down on the 17th hole. 😲😲😲😲😲😲 Video credit: Ed Vance/FB pic.twitter.com/Yk59k42okF — Everything Georgia (@GAFollowers) March 27, 2019 × According to The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, there are approximately 200,000-250,000 alligators in the state of Georgia.

Watch: Giant alligator interrupts golf match

Patrick Reed has yet to string together four solid rounds of golf this year and would like to find some consistency before setting off on his Masters title defence next month.

Reed is fresh off a share of 47th place at The Players Championship and only eight days removed from a T-50 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational but for the 28-year-old American there is no need to panic ahead of the April 11-14 Masters.

"I've put myself in position and have put some solid rounds together, I just haven't quite put four out there yet at the same time," Reed told a pre-Masters conference call on Monday.

"I feel like I'm really close. I feel like I've got the bag where I feel really comfortable and confident with it, and now it's just get some more reps (golf) underneath me and just kind of get ready for Augusta."

Reed took the golf world by storm with a one-shot victory at last year's Masters, where he spent much of the week at Augusta National Golf Club under he radar until storming into a two-shot lead after the second round.

The American led by three strokes going into the final round and turned back an early challenge from Rory McIlroy and then held off later charges from Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler to capture his first major title.

The Masters triumph was the most recent of Reed's six PGA Tour victories and while he knows a win going into the year's first major would be a welcome boost it is far from necessary.

"It definitely would help but, honestly, I feel like my mindset and state of mind that I'm in right now is better than it was last year at this point," said Reed.

"I've hit golf shots and have done things on the golf course that I feel a little bit more comfortable this year doing than I did last year at this point, but I just need to go out and continue playing to put four rounds together."

Reed will compete in the Valspar Championship in Palm Harbor, Florida, starting on Thursday, and then in next week's World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play event in Austin before setting his sights on Augusta.

While Reed would love to snag a victory ahead of his Masters title defence he insists his main goal is simply to find more consistency in his game before making his way to Augusta.

"The preparations have been going really well. I feel like I am in as good form, if not a better place, than I was last year at this time," said Reed.

"The big thing is just to continue to build and grow on the things that we've been working on -- my coach and I and my team and I -- throughout the year, and just get ready and kind of get in playing shape for the tournaments coming up."

Patrick Reed has yet to string together four solid rounds of golf this year and would like to find some consistency before setting off on his Masters title defence next month.

Patrick Reed has yet to string together four solid rounds of golf this year and would like to find some consistency before setting off on his Masters title defence next month. Reed is fresh off a share of 47th place at The Players Championship and only eight days removed from a T-50 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational but for the 28-year-old American there is no need to panic ahead of the April 11-14 Masters. "I've put myself in position and have put some solid rounds together, I just haven't quite put four out there yet at the same time," Reed told a pre-Masters conference call on Monday. "I feel like I'm really close. I feel like I've got the bag where I feel really comfortable and confident with it, and now it's just get some more reps (golf) underneath me and just kind of get ready for Augusta." Reed took the golf world by storm with a one-shot victory at last year's Masters, where he spent much of the week at Augusta National Golf Club under he radar until storming into a two-shot lead after the second round. The American led by three strokes going into the final round and turned back an early challenge from Rory McIlroy and then held off later charges from Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler to capture his first major title. The Masters triumph was the most recent of Reed's six PGA Tour victories and while he knows a win going into the year's first major would be a welcome boost it is far from necessary. "It definitely would help but, honestly, I feel like my mindset and state of mind that I'm in right now is better than it was last year at this point," said Reed. "I've hit golf shots and have done things on the golf course that I feel a little bit more comfortable this year doing than I did last year at this point, but I just need to go out and continue playing to put four rounds together." Reed will compete in the Valspar Championship in Palm Harbor, Florida, starting on Thursday, and then in next week's World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play event in Austin before setting his sights on Augusta. While Reed would love to snag a victory ahead of his Masters title defence he insists his main goal is simply to find more consistency in his game before making his way to Augusta. "The preparations have been going really well. I feel like I am in as good form, if not a better place, than I was last year at this time," said Reed. "The big thing is just to continue to build and grow on the things that we've been working on -- my coach and I and my team and I -- throughout the year, and just get ready and kind of get in playing shape for the tournaments coming up."

Patrick Reed seeking consistency ahead of Masters title defence

Professional golfer Viraj Madappa led his team to victory at the Pro-Am event of the Bengal Open Golf Championship 2019.&nbsp;

Viraj's team, which comprised of amateurs Sarvesh Kumar, Rishad Chinoy and Sameer Bahri, posted a score of 54.1.&nbsp;

Rakshik Basu was given the prize for the longest drive on hole number 10 for landing it at a distance of 280 yards.&nbsp;

While contest for the Incredible India closest to the pin on hole number 11 was won by Shiv Mohan who landed it within three feet of the pin.&nbsp;

Joydeep Dutta Gupta won the contest for the straightest drive on hole number one.&nbsp;

His drive landed on the line which defined the centre of the fairway.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Delhi-based professional Honey Baisoya and his team comprising of amateurs Dipak Barma, Partha Barman and Harsh Jhunjhunwala were the runners-up.&nbsp;

Baisoya's team scored 54.4 at the event.&nbsp;

Professional golfer Viraj Madappa led his team to victory at the Pro-Am event of the Bengal Open Golf Championship 2019. Viraj's team, which comprised of amateurs Sarvesh Kumar, Rishad Chinoy and Sameer Bahri, posted a score of 54.

Professional golfer Viraj Madappa led his team to victory at the Pro-Am event of the Bengal Open Golf Championship 2019. Viraj's team, which comprised of amateurs Sarvesh Kumar, Rishad Chinoy and Sameer Bahri, posted a score of 54.1. Rakshik Basu was given the prize for the longest drive on hole number 10 for landing it at a distance of 280 yards. While contest for the Incredible India closest to the pin on hole number 11 was won by Shiv Mohan who landed it within three feet of the pin. Joydeep Dutta Gupta won the contest for the straightest drive on hole number one. His drive landed on the line which defined the centre of the fairway. On the other hand, Delhi-based professional Honey Baisoya and his team comprising of amateurs Dipak Barma, Partha Barman and Harsh Jhunjhunwala were the runners-up. Baisoya's team scored 54.4 at the event.

Viraj Madappa leads his team to victory at Pro-Am event of Bengal Open Golf Championship 2019

Tiger Woods seemingly dispelled doubts about his participation in this week's Players Championship in Florida when he arrived on Monday and declared he was in fine fettle.

Woods pulled out of last week's Arnold Palmer Invitational citing a neck strain, which raised the possibility that he might also miss the PGA Tour's flagship event.

But it seems his decision to skip a tournament he has won eight times was more precautionary than the result of a serious problem.

"I feel good," the 14-times major champion told Golfweek as he left his vehicle at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, three days before the first round.

"I needed last week off... I didn't want to push it."

Woods has won the Players Championship twice, most recently in 2013.

A spinal fusion nearly two years ago resurrected a career that had been in danger of coming to a premature end.

Woods last played at the WGC-Mexico Championship, where he finished equal 10th on Feb. 24.

Jason Day and Phil Mickelson were also on-site at TPC Sawgrass on Monday, indicating that the big names will all participate in the event.

Australian Day pulled out of the Arnold Palmer Invitational during the first round last Thursday, citing back pain and reporting that an MRI had revealed a tear in a disc.

"My back feels a lot better," Day told Golf Digest after playing 18 holes.

Mickelson, unlike Woods and Day, is not under an injury cloud but had said he would not play if the rough was too thick.

However, after missing the cut at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Mickelson was an early arrival at TPC Sawgrass on Sunday, and was at the course again on Monday.

He tweeted that the course had "very little rough".

Two players withdrew on Monday -- American world number 86 Pat Perez and South Korean world number 175 Whee Kim.

Perez revealed on Instagram that he had injured an Achilles tendon. No reason was announced for Kim's withdrawal.

Tiger Woods seemingly dispelled doubts about his participation in this week's Players Championship in Florida when he arrived on Monday and declared he was in fine fettle.

Tiger Woods seemingly dispelled doubts about his participation in this week's Players Championship in Florida when he arrived on Monday and declared he was in fine fettle. Woods pulled out of last week's Arnold Palmer Invitational citing a neck strain, which raised the possibility that he might also miss the PGA Tour's flagship event. But it seems his decision to skip a tournament he has won eight times was more precautionary than the result of a serious problem. "I feel good," the 14-times major champion told Golfweek as he left his vehicle at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, three days before the first round. "I needed last week off... I didn't want to push it." Woods has won the Players Championship twice, most recently in 2013. A spinal fusion nearly two years ago resurrected a career that had been in danger of coming to a premature end. Woods last played at the WGC-Mexico Championship, where he finished equal 10th on Feb. 24. Jason Day and Phil Mickelson were also on-site at TPC Sawgrass on Monday, indicating that the big names will all participate in the event. Australian Day pulled out of the Arnold Palmer Invitational during the first round last Thursday, citing back pain and reporting that an MRI had revealed a tear in a disc. "My back feels a lot better," Day told Golf Digest after playing 18 holes. Mickelson, unlike Woods and Day, is not under an injury cloud but had said he would not play if the rough was too thick. However, after missing the cut at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Mickelson was an early arrival at TPC Sawgrass on Sunday, and was at the course again on Monday. He tweeted that the course had "very little rough". Two players withdrew on Monday -- American world number 86 Pat Perez and South Korean world number 175 Whee Kim. Perez revealed on Instagram that he had injured an Achilles tendon. No reason was announced for Kim's withdrawal.

Tiger Woods says he feels good on arrival at Players Championship

Dustin Johnson captured his 20th US PGA Tour title on Sunday, firing a five-under par 66 to beat Rory McIlroy by five strokes in the final round of the WGC-Mexico Championship.

The 34-year-old American finished with a 21-under 263 total to win this event at the Club de Golf Chapultepec for the second time in three years.

"It clicked. I hit it really well this week," Johnson said. "It means a lot, to get 20 wins out here is very difficult. To do it before I turn 35 is pretty incredible.&nbsp;

"This is a big win for me. It gives me a lot of confidence for the rest of the year. I feel like the game is in good form right now."

McIlroy closed with a 67 thanks to a sizzling back nine -- six birdies in seven holes before a bogey at 18 -- but it wasn't enough to catch red-hot Johnson, who posted five of his six birdies on the back nine.

Johnson has won at least one US PGA event in 12th consecutive years, with his 20th career win coming in his 246th start.&nbsp;

Englishmen Paul Casey and Ian Poulter shared third on 273, shooting 65 and 68 respectively in the fourth round, with Thailand's Kiradech Aphibarnrat, who fired 68 to join the pack 10 off Johnson's pace.

Sergio Garcia, Patrick Cantlay and Cameron Smith shot identical 70s and shared sixth.&nbsp;

Justin Thomas had the round of the day with a nine-under 62 which left him ninth. He had four consecutive birdies on numbers 10-13 and fashioned nine birdies over his first dozen holes.

In was another stroke back to Tiger Woods, who closed out his week with a 69 and tied for 10th with fellow Americans Keegan Bradley and David Lipsky and Dutchman Joost Luiten.

Johnson got off to a tentative start with a bogey on the par-three third hole before making birdie on the par-five sixth.

"I felt some nerves at the beginning of the day but then I made some really good par saves early in the round and it gave me some momentum," Johnson said.

'Easy game for him'

He kicked it into high gear on the back nine with back-to-back birdies on the 10th and 11th holes and then strung together three birdies in a row beginning at the par-four 14th.

"I just think that this place, it definitely favours someone who's driving it well," Thomas said. "But as good as DJ's wedge game is, it's a pretty easy game for him sometimes."

McIlroy failed to take advantage of Johnson's sluggish start with two bogeys on the front nine at the fourth and sixth holes.

McIlroy got hot on the backside, making six birdies in a seven-hole stretch before closing with another bogey on the par-four 18th.

"No contest," said McIlroy. "Especially here. His drives are going 380 down the middle of the fairway and he's holing most of the putts he looks at."

Woods, a seven-time winner of the tournament, struggled on the greens for the second consecutive day.&nbsp;

The 14-time major champion missed short birdie putts on the par-5 15 and the par-4 16th hole. Woods now takes a week off before returning for back-to-back events at the Bay Hill and The Players.&nbsp;

Reigning Masters champion Patrick Reed shot a final round 73 while playing in the final group. He finished tied for 14th.

Dustin Johnson captured his 20th US PGA Tour title on Sunday, firing a five-under par 66 to beat Rory McIlroy by five strokes in the final round of the WGC-Mexico Championship.

Dustin Johnson captured his 20th US PGA Tour title on Sunday, firing a five-under par 66 to beat Rory McIlroy by five strokes in the final round of the WGC-Mexico Championship. The 34-year-old American finished with a 21-under 263 total to win this event at the Club de Golf Chapultepec for the second time in three years. "It clicked. I hit it really well this week," Johnson said. "It means a lot, to get 20 wins out here is very difficult. To do it before I turn 35 is pretty incredible. "This is a big win for me. It gives me a lot of confidence for the rest of the year. I feel like the game is in good form right now." McIlroy closed with a 67 thanks to a sizzling back nine -- six birdies in seven holes before a bogey at 18 -- but it wasn't enough to catch red-hot Johnson, who posted five of his six birdies on the back nine. Johnson has won at least one US PGA event in 12th consecutive years, with his 20th career win coming in his 246th start. Englishmen Paul Casey and Ian Poulter shared third on 273, shooting 65 and 68 respectively in the fourth round, with Thailand's Kiradech Aphibarnrat, who fired 68 to join the pack 10 off Johnson's pace. Sergio Garcia, Patrick Cantlay and Cameron Smith shot identical 70s and shared sixth. Justin Thomas had the round of the day with a nine-under 62 which left him ninth. He had four consecutive birdies on numbers 10-13 and fashioned nine birdies over his first dozen holes. In was another stroke back to Tiger Woods, who closed out his week with a 69 and tied for 10th with fellow Americans Keegan Bradley and David Lipsky and Dutchman Joost Luiten. Johnson got off to a tentative start with a bogey on the par-three third hole before making birdie on the par-five sixth. "I felt some nerves at the beginning of the day but then I made some really good par saves early in the round and it gave me some momentum," Johnson said. 'Easy game for him' He kicked it into high gear on the back nine with back-to-back birdies on the 10th and 11th holes and then strung together three birdies in a row beginning at the par-four 14th. "I just think that this place, it definitely favours someone who's driving it well," Thomas said. "But as good as DJ's wedge game is, it's a pretty easy game for him sometimes." McIlroy failed to take advantage of Johnson's sluggish start with two bogeys on the front nine at the fourth and sixth holes. McIlroy got hot on the backside, making six birdies in a seven-hole stretch before closing with another bogey on the par-four 18th. "No contest," said McIlroy. "Especially here. His drives are going 380 down the middle of the fairway and he's holing most of the putts he looks at." Woods, a seven-time winner of the tournament, struggled on the greens for the second consecutive day. The 14-time major champion missed short birdie putts on the par-5 15 and the par-4 16th hole. Woods now takes a week off before returning for back-to-back events at the Bay Hill and The Players. Reigning Masters champion Patrick Reed shot a final round 73 while playing in the final group. He finished tied for 14th.

Dustin Johnson holds off McIlroy to win WGC-Mexico Championship

Tiger Woods has won more major championships than anyone other than Jack Nicklaus but his putting went badly awry during the third round of the WGC-Mexico Championship on Saturday.

The American, in his first competitive appearance south of the border, sent murmurs of disbelief through the packed gallery when he four-putted at the 15th hole at Club de Golf Chapultepec in Mexico City.

It took him three attempts to get the ball into the hole on the 16th green and the PGA Tour confirmed that it was the first time he had put together such a poor display of putting on consecutive holes.

Woods had played 22,640 holes on the PGA Tour when he approached the 15th, where everything looked in order as he coaxed a birdie putt up to inside four feet.

His par putt lipped out, however, and trickled two feet away from the cup. Without marking his ball, Woods stroked his third putt, which also lipped out, and he walked off with a double-bogey.

His three-putt at the next, where he missed a five-footer, was not quite as dramatic but hardly less disappointing for one of the greatest talents to have played the game.

Despite the putting problems, the 14-times major champion shot a respectable one-under-par 70 to trail leader Dustin Johnson by 10 strokes heading into Sunday's final round.

Woods declined to speak to the media afterwards, something he has done only a handful of times over his career.

Tiger Woods has won more major championships than anyone other than Jack Nicklaus but his putting went badly awry during the third round of the WGC-Mexico Championship on Saturday.

Tiger Woods has won more major championships than anyone other than Jack Nicklaus but his putting went badly awry during the third round of the WGC-Mexico Championship on Saturday. The American, in his first competitive appearance south of the border, sent murmurs of disbelief through the packed gallery when he four-putted at the 15th hole at Club de Golf Chapultepec in Mexico City. It took him three attempts to get the ball into the hole on the 16th green and the PGA Tour confirmed that it was the first time he had put together such a poor display of putting on consecutive holes. Woods had played 22,640 holes on the PGA Tour when he approached the 15th, where everything looked in order as he coaxed a birdie putt up to inside four feet. His par putt lipped out, however, and trickled two feet away from the cup. Without marking his ball, Woods stroked his third putt, which also lipped out, and he walked off with a double-bogey. His three-putt at the next, where he missed a five-footer, was not quite as dramatic but hardly less disappointing for one of the greatest talents to have played the game. Despite the putting problems, the 14-times major champion shot a respectable one-under-par 70 to trail leader Dustin Johnson by 10 strokes heading into Sunday's final round. Woods declined to speak to the media afterwards, something he has done only a handful of times over his career.

Tiger Woods hits career low with putting woes on consecutive holes in Mexico

Former US Masters champion Sergio Garcia has apologised for his disqualification from the Saudi International earlier this month and said he let his emotions get the better of him.

Garcia was disqualified when he intentionally damaged the greens at the Royal Greens Golf and Country Club in the third round.

"I'm sorry to my fans and fellow competitors. What happened is not an example I want to set, and it's not who I truly am," Garcia said on Instagram.

"I am an emotional player and while I believe that's one of my biggest strengths, it's also one of my biggest flaws.

"I'm focused on working hard to channel that emotion the correct way and to be the best me, learn from it and move forward."

The 39-year-old Spaniard is in the field at the Genesis Open in Los Angeles this week.

Former US Masters champion Sergio Garcia has apologised for his disqualification from the Saudi International earlier this month and said he let his emotions get the better of him.

Former US Masters champion Sergio Garcia has apologised for his disqualification from the Saudi International earlier this month and said he let his emotions get the better of him. Garcia was disqualified when he intentionally damaged the greens at the Royal Greens Golf and Country Club in the third round. "I'm sorry to my fans and fellow competitors. What happened is not an example I want to set, and it's not who I truly am," Garcia said on Instagram. "I am an emotional player and while I believe that's one of my biggest strengths, it's also one of my biggest flaws. "I'm focused on working hard to channel that emotion the correct way and to be the best me, learn from it and move forward." The 39-year-old Spaniard is in the field at the Genesis Open in Los Angeles this week.

Golf: Sergio Garcia apologises for Saudi tantrum

Three-times major champion Brooks Koepka has publicly rebuked Sergio Garcia for a temper tantrum at the European Tour's Saudi International on Saturday, and says it is time for the Spaniard to "grow up".

Garcia was disqualified from the event after the third round for what the tour deemed "serious misconduct" under rule 1.2a.

"I respect the decision of my disqualification. In frustration, I damaged a couple of greens, for which I apologise for, and I have informed my fellow players it will never happen again," Garcia said in a statement released by the tour.

In addition, video surfaced on social media of Garcia slamming his club into the sand three times after a mediocre bunker shot, and angrily speaking in Spanish as he departed the trap.

"That's just Sergio acting like a child," Koepka said in interview with the Playing Through podcast on Tuesday.

"It's unfortunate that he's got to do that and complain. Everybody's got to play the same golf course. I didn't play very good, but you didn't really see anybody else doing that.

"I mean, you're 40 years old, so you've got to grow up eventually."

Garcia is 39.

Koepka finished equal 57th in the inaugural event won by fellow American Dustin Johnson.

The tournament, at the Royal Greens Golf and Country Club in King Abdullah Economic City, attracted a star-studded field -- including four of the world's five top-ranked players -- by paying out large appearance fees.

Garcia, the 2017 Masters champion, seemed to have mellowed after finally tasting major success, getting married and becoming a father, all within 12 months of each other.

Koepka, the reigning U.S. Open and PGA champion, did not play with Garcia, and learned about the behaviour of his peer only afterwards.

"It's frustrating as a player to see. To act like that, the disrespect to everybody, to act like a child out there is not cool," Koepka said.

"It's not setting a good example and it's not cool to us, showing us no respect."

Three-times major champion Brooks Koepka has publicly rebuked Sergio Garcia for a temper tantrum at the European Tour's Saudi International on Saturday, and says it is time for the Spaniard to "grow up".

Three-times major champion Brooks Koepka has publicly rebuked Sergio Garcia for a temper tantrum at the European Tour's Saudi International on Saturday, and says it is time for the Spaniard to "grow up". Garcia was disqualified from the event after the third round for what the tour deemed "serious misconduct" under rule 1.2a. "I respect the decision of my disqualification. In frustration, I damaged a couple of greens, for which I apologise for, and I have informed my fellow players it will never happen again," Garcia said in a statement released by the tour. In addition, video surfaced on social media of Garcia slamming his club into the sand three times after a mediocre bunker shot, and angrily speaking in Spanish as he departed the trap. "That's just Sergio acting like a child," Koepka said in interview with the Playing Through podcast on Tuesday. "It's unfortunate that he's got to do that and complain. Everybody's got to play the same golf course. I didn't play very good, but you didn't really see anybody else doing that. "I mean, you're 40 years old, so you've got to grow up eventually." Garcia is 39. Koepka finished equal 57th in the inaugural event won by fellow American Dustin Johnson. The tournament, at the Royal Greens Golf and Country Club in King Abdullah Economic City, attracted a star-studded field -- including four of the world's five top-ranked players -- by paying out large appearance fees. Garcia, the 2017 Masters champion, seemed to have mellowed after finally tasting major success, getting married and becoming a father, all within 12 months of each other. Koepka, the reigning U.S. Open and PGA champion, did not play with Garcia, and learned about the behaviour of his peer only afterwards. "It's frustrating as a player to see. To act like that, the disrespect to everybody, to act like a child out there is not cool," Koepka said. "It's not setting a good example and it's not cool to us, showing us no respect."

Golf: 'Grow up', Koepka tells Garcia after Saudi meltdown

Gaganjeet Bhullar made a solid start to his year, finishing tied 27th in the USD 7 million Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, the first Rolex Series event of the season on the European Tour, on Saturday.

The 30-year-old from Kapurthala shot an even-par 72 in his final round to tally seven-under par 281 for the tournament, which was won by Ireland's Shane Lowry (71) after an epic battle with Richard Sterne of South Africa.

Sterne (69) started the day three shots behind Lowry, but birdied four of his first five holes to get off to a hot start. He led by four shots after 12 holes, but closed with two bogeys while Lowry made three birdies coming in.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old Irishman finished on 18-under par 270 and is expected to rise to No. 40 in the world ranking.

Bhullar had played in the leader group in the tournament with Phil Mickelson back in 2014. He had shot a final-round three-over 75 to drop down to a share of 10th place that year. He could not match the finish Saturday, but was delighted nevertheless with his efforts over the demanding National Course of Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

"I have not played any competitive golf for more than a month now, so to come out here on a very tough golf course and play solid golf all four rounds was very pleasing," said Bhullar, who bogeyed the 14th and 16th holes coming in.

"I hit the ball really well on all four days and the only disappointment was that I made a couple of loose putts today on the back nine. This is a big prize-money Rolex Series event and there is some pressure to make sure we play well in these. I have two more events in Dubai and Saudi Arabia after that and this start is going to be a good confidence boost ahead of them."

On Saturday, Bhullar started with a par from the greenside bunker on the opening hole, and then got a birdie from another greenside bunker on the par-5 second. He made the turn at even par after making bogeys on the fourth and sixth holes from the bunker, before a peach of a third shot to one feet on the par-5 18th gave him another birdie.

Back-to-back birdies on the 12th and 13th holes got him going again, before the late bogeys on the 14th and 16th holes.

The most successful Indian on the Asian Tour (nine titles) regained his European Tour card last year by winning the co-sanctioned Fiji International.&nbsp;

Gaganjeet Bhullar made a solid start to his year, finishing tied 27th in the USD 7 million Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, the first Rolex Series event of the season on the European Tour, on Saturday.

Gaganjeet Bhullar made a solid start to his year, finishing tied 27th in the USD 7 million Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, the first Rolex Series event of the season on the European Tour, on Saturday. The 30-year-old from Kapurthala shot an even-par 72 in his final round to tally seven-under par 281 for the tournament, which was won by Ireland's Shane Lowry (71) after an epic battle with Richard Sterne of South Africa. Sterne (69) started the day three shots behind Lowry, but birdied four of his first five holes to get off to a hot start. He led by four shots after 12 holes, but closed with two bogeys while Lowry made three birdies coming in. The 31-year-old Irishman finished on 18-under par 270 and is expected to rise to No. 40 in the world ranking. Bhullar had played in the leader group in the tournament with Phil Mickelson back in 2014. He had shot a final-round three-over 75 to drop down to a share of 10th place that year. He could not match the finish Saturday, but was delighted nevertheless with his efforts over the demanding National Course of Abu Dhabi Golf Club. "I have not played any competitive golf for more than a month now, so to come out here on a very tough golf course and play solid golf all four rounds was very pleasing," said Bhullar, who bogeyed the 14th and 16th holes coming in. "I hit the ball really well on all four days and the only disappointment was that I made a couple of loose putts today on the back nine. This is a big prize-money Rolex Series event and there is some pressure to make sure we play well in these. I have two more events in Dubai and Saudi Arabia after that and this start is going to be a good confidence boost ahead of them." On Saturday, Bhullar started with a par from the greenside bunker on the opening hole, and then got a birdie from another greenside bunker on the par-5 second. He made the turn at even par after making bogeys on the fourth and sixth holes from the bunker, before a peach of a third shot to one feet on the par-5 18th gave him another birdie. Back-to-back birdies on the 12th and 13th holes got him going again, before the late bogeys on the 14th and 16th holes. The most successful Indian on the Asian Tour (nine titles) regained his European Tour card last year by winning the co-sanctioned Fiji International.

Golf: Gaganjeet Bhullar finishes 27th in Abu Dhabi

Chez Reavie made history with three eagles on par-four holes during the second round at the Sony Open in Hawaii on Friday.

According to the PGA Tour, nobody had managed the feat since accurate records of such occurrences began in 1983.

The low-key Reavie took the achievement in stride.

"It was strange," the 37-year-old American told Golf Channel at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu, where he trailed leader Matt Kuchar by four shots.

"You hit good shots and you don't expect them to go in. You're always surprised when they drop."

Reavie, the 2008 Canadian Open champion, wasted no time notching his first eagle, holing out from 100 yards at the 10th, his first hole of the day.

He added his next eagle from 150 yards at the 16th, and as if that was not enough made another from 135 yards at the sixth hole.

He said it was only after the third eagle that he started to wonder if a fourth was in store, and when his wedge approach at his 17th hole flew straight towards the pin he "thought could it really happen again".

His ball stopped six feet short of the cup.

Under the circumstances, he might have had reason to be slightly disappointed with a five-under-par 65, which included a double-bogey, but was not complaining.

"You can't be disappointed out here," he said after signing for a 10-under 130 halfway total.

"This golf course is tough."

Chez Reavie made history with three eagles on par-four holes during the second round at the Sony Open in Hawaii on Friday. According to the PGA Tour, nobody had managed the feat since accurate records of such occurrences began in 1983.

Chez Reavie made history with three eagles on par-four holes during the second round at the Sony Open in Hawaii on Friday. According to the PGA Tour, nobody had managed the feat since accurate records of such occurrences began in 1983. The low-key Reavie took the achievement in stride. "It was strange," the 37-year-old American told Golf Channel at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu, where he trailed leader Matt Kuchar by four shots. "You hit good shots and you don't expect them to go in. You're always surprised when they drop." Reavie, the 2008 Canadian Open champion, wasted no time notching his first eagle, holing out from 100 yards at the 10th, his first hole of the day. He added his next eagle from 150 yards at the 16th, and as if that was not enough made another from 135 yards at the sixth hole. He said it was only after the third eagle that he started to wonder if a fourth was in store, and when his wedge approach at his 17th hole flew straight towards the pin he "thought could it really happen again". His ball stopped six feet short of the cup. Under the circumstances, he might have had reason to be slightly disappointed with a five-under-par 65, which included a double-bogey, but was not complaining. "You can't be disappointed out here," he said after signing for a 10-under 130 halfway total. "This golf course is tough."

Chez Reavie makes history with three eagles on par-four holes

Shubhankar Sharma Saturday became the youngest Indian to clinch the Asian Tour Order of Merit after a groundbreaking year of achievements. 
He won it even before the finish of the last two events of the 2018 season.&nbsp;

Sharma, who has led the Habitat for Humanity Order of Merit from February this year kept his nose ahead all the time.&nbsp;

After finishing tied sixth at the Hong Kong Open, which was his 11th start in a row and 15th in 16 weeks from the Open de France in June-July, Sharma skipped the Queen's Cup, Mauritius Open and the South African Open, despite a late challenge being mounted by South African Justin Harding.&nbsp;

This week as Harding missed the cut, any chance of him overtaking Sharma also ended and the Indian added another feather to his well-adorned cap.&nbsp;

Sharma, 22, became the fifth and the youngest Indian to win the Asian Tour Order of Merit. He joins Indian golfing legends like Jyoti Randhawa (2002), Arjun Atwal (2003), Jeev Milkha Singh (2006 and 2008) and Anirban Lahiri (2015).&nbsp;

None of the previous Indian winners of the Asian Tour Order of Merit were below 30 when they reached the top, while Sharma is just 22. Jeev is the only one in the list to win the Merit honours twice.&nbsp;

"The Asian Tour Order of Merit was something very significant for me, as were many of the other milestones, but with this I have followed in the footsteps of golfers like Jyoti Randhawa, Arjun Atwal, Jeev Milkha Singh and Anirban Lahiri, all of whom I look up to and who have been very encouraging to me," said Sharma.&nbsp;

Sharma is due to make his final start of 2018 at the BNI Indonesia Masters next week in Jakarta, where he will also be officially crowned as Asian Tour's No. 1.

The latest success rounds off a superb year for Sharma, who followed up his first Asian ? European Tour win at Joburg Open in mid-December, by winning the Malaysian Championships in February.&nbsp;

The young golfer, who at one time led both Asian and European Tour Order of Merits, went on to achieve his career-best World Ranking of 64 by finishing tied ninth on his WGC debut in Mexico and then finishing tied seventh at Hero Indian Open.&nbsp;

Sharma's cheque of USD 500,000 from Malaysia gave him a headstart in the merit race.&nbsp;

He went on to play all four Majors, as he was invited by the Augusta National Golf Club, and qualified for other three Majors, and also played all four WGC events.&nbsp;

He also topped the race for the European Tour's Rookie of Year and won the Sir Harry Cotton Award.&nbsp;

During the year, he was also honoured with the Arjuna Award, presented to him by the President of India.

Sharma's highlights of the year included the win in Malaysia, Top-10s in WGC-Mexico (T-9); Hero Indian Open (T-7); CIMB Classic (T-10) and Hong Kong Open (T-6).

Shubhankar Sharma Saturday became the youngest Indian to clinch the Asian Tour Order of Merit after a groundbreaking year of achievements. He won it even before the finish of the last two events of the 2018 season.

Shubhankar Sharma Saturday became the youngest Indian to clinch the Asian Tour Order of Merit after a groundbreaking year of achievements. He won it even before the finish of the last two events of the 2018 season. Sharma, who has led the Habitat for Humanity Order of Merit from February this year kept his nose ahead all the time. After finishing tied sixth at the Hong Kong Open, which was his 11th start in a row and 15th in 16 weeks from the Open de France in June-July, Sharma skipped the Queen's Cup, Mauritius Open and the South African Open, despite a late challenge being mounted by South African Justin Harding. This week as Harding missed the cut, any chance of him overtaking Sharma also ended and the Indian added another feather to his well-adorned cap. Sharma, 22, became the fifth and the youngest Indian to win the Asian Tour Order of Merit. He joins Indian golfing legends like Jyoti Randhawa (2002), Arjun Atwal (2003), Jeev Milkha Singh (2006 and 2008) and Anirban Lahiri (2015). None of the previous Indian winners of the Asian Tour Order of Merit were below 30 when they reached the top, while Sharma is just 22. Jeev is the only one in the list to win the Merit honours twice. "The Asian Tour Order of Merit was something very significant for me, as were many of the other milestones, but with this I have followed in the footsteps of golfers like Jyoti Randhawa, Arjun Atwal, Jeev Milkha Singh and Anirban Lahiri, all of whom I look up to and who have been very encouraging to me," said Sharma. Sharma is due to make his final start of 2018 at the BNI Indonesia Masters next week in Jakarta, where he will also be officially crowned as Asian Tour's No. 1. The latest success rounds off a superb year for Sharma, who followed up his first Asian ? European Tour win at Joburg Open in mid-December, by winning the Malaysian Championships in February. The young golfer, who at one time led both Asian and European Tour Order of Merits, went on to achieve his career-best World Ranking of 64 by finishing tied ninth on his WGC debut in Mexico and then finishing tied seventh at Hero Indian Open. Sharma's cheque of USD 500,000 from Malaysia gave him a headstart in the merit race. He went on to play all four Majors, as he was invited by the Augusta National Golf Club, and qualified for other three Majors, and also played all four WGC events. He also topped the race for the European Tour's Rookie of Year and won the Sir Harry Cotton Award. During the year, he was also honoured with the Arjuna Award, presented to him by the President of India. Sharma's highlights of the year included the win in Malaysia, Top-10s in WGC-Mexico (T-9); Hero Indian Open (T-7); CIMB Classic (T-10) and Hong Kong Open (T-6).

Shubhankar Sharma becomes youngest Indian to win Asian Tour Order of Merit

Two months after beating Tiger Woods at the Ryder Cup, Jon Rahm won his hero's tournament on Sunday (December 2), surging to a four-stroke win at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas.

Rahm started the final round tied with Tony Finau and Henrik Stenson but turned it into a one-horse race with a seven-birdie seven-under-par 65 at Albany on the island of New Providence.

He finished at 20-under 268, while American Finau (69) birdied the last to claim second place on 16 under.

Englishman Justin Rose (65) was another shot back in third.

Swede Stenson faded with a 71 to finish six shots back in fourth place in the elite 18-man field.

Finau hung within striking distance of Rahm until a poor tee shot at the 14th led to a double bogey and pretty much sealed the deal for the Spaniard.

Rahm's victory is unofficial on the PGA Tour, though the tournament awarded world ranking points.

Tournament host Woods finished second-last, a distant 19 strokes behind Rahm.

Two months after beating Tiger Woods at the Ryder Cup, Jon Rahm won his hero's tournament on Sunday (December 2), surging to a four-stroke win at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas.

Two months after beating Tiger Woods at the Ryder Cup, Jon Rahm won his hero's tournament on Sunday (December 2), surging to a four-stroke win at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas. Rahm started the final round tied with Tony Finau and Henrik Stenson but turned it into a one-horse race with a seven-birdie seven-under-par 65 at Albany on the island of New Providence. He finished at 20-under 268, while American Finau (69) birdied the last to claim second place on 16 under. Englishman Justin Rose (65) was another shot back in third. Swede Stenson faded with a 71 to finish six shots back in fourth place in the elite 18-man field. Finau hung within striking distance of Rahm until a poor tee shot at the 14th led to a double bogey and pretty much sealed the deal for the Spaniard. Rahm's victory is unofficial on the PGA Tour, though the tournament awarded world ranking points. Tournament host Woods finished second-last, a distant 19 strokes behind Rahm.

Jon Rahm wins Hero World Challenge

Phil Mickelson has played in&nbsp;Tiger&nbsp;Woods' shadow for much of his career but got some semblance of revenge on Friday by winning their $9 million matchplay exhibition under the floodlights in Las Vegas.

With the match all square through regulation, Mickelson sealed the win at the fourth hole of a sudden-death playoff when he drained a four-foot birdie putt on a makeshift 93-yard hole after the duo had teed off from a practice green.

Mickelson, whose tally of five major championships is well shy of the 14 held by&nbsp;Woods, savoured the win over a player he had a white-hot rivalry with more than a decade ago and whom he described as the best to ever play the game.

"A day like today is not going to take anything away from his greatness. He's the greatest of all time," Mickelson said after "The Match" at Shadow Creek Golf Club.

"But to be able to have just a little bit of smack talk for the coming years means a lot to me because I don't really have much on him. He always drops the big picture and it's the trump card."

Golf's first venture into pay-per-view was hyped like a Las Vegas prizefight but proved more of a pillow fight with both golfers in jovial mood, playing for a purse that was put up by sponsors and will go to a charity of Mickelson's choice.

While the event lacked the tension provided by a Sunday back nine at the Masters,&nbsp;Woods&nbsp;set up a dramatic finish when his bump-and-run from beside the 17th green, with the match on the line, found the cup and brought the match to all square.

"I just did not want the match to end on that hole," said&nbsp;Woods, who grabbed his only lead at the day with a birdie at 12 but gave it right back at the 13th.

Woods' shot at 17 pumped some much-needed life into the match as the players headed to the 18th where Mickelson had a 32-foot putt for the win but failed to convert.

Nothing was settled when the players returned to the 18th tee for the first extra hole and so they descended on the 93-yard hole where they had to wait as the grounds crew re-cut a hole on the 18th green.

"To have a day like today, I just never thought we'd go to this extra hole," said Mickelson. "My heart just can't take much more of it."

After the two most popular golfers of their era hit their opening tee shots at Shadow Creek, they set off for what proved to be an underwhelming round in which both failed to deliver the highlight reel-type shots that have defined their careers.

Instead, Mickelson and&nbsp;Woods&nbsp;shared stories, complimented each other, laughed like long-lost friends and made side bets for eye-popping sums.

While the pay-per-view event was priced at $19.99, promoters decided to offer it free online at some point during play because of what they described as technical issues that impacted user access. It is not yet known if viewers who paid for the event would be credited.

Woods&nbsp;and Mickelson, who are among the world's highest-paid athletes, put up their own money for the side bets, including a whopping $1 million wager if either made eagle at the ninth hole. Neither golfer was able to cash in.

Mickelson also earned $600,000 for winning three closest-to-the-pin side bets after losing $200,000 for failing to make a birdie at the opening hole. Money from side bets will also be donated to charity.

Phil Mickelson has played in Tiger Woods' shadow for much of his career but got some semblance of revenge on Friday by winning their $9 million matchplay exhibition under the floodlights in Las Vegas.

Phil Mickelson has played in Tiger Woods' shadow for much of his career but got some semblance of revenge on Friday by winning their $9 million matchplay exhibition under the floodlights in Las Vegas. With the match all square through regulation, Mickelson sealed the win at the fourth hole of a sudden-death playoff when he drained a four-foot birdie putt on a makeshift 93-yard hole after the duo had teed off from a practice green. Mickelson, whose tally of five major championships is well shy of the 14 held by Woods, savoured the win over a player he had a white-hot rivalry with more than a decade ago and whom he described as the best to ever play the game. "A day like today is not going to take anything away from his greatness. He's the greatest of all time," Mickelson said after "The Match" at Shadow Creek Golf Club. "But to be able to have just a little bit of smack talk for the coming years means a lot to me because I don't really have much on him. He always drops the big picture and it's the trump card." Golf's first venture into pay-per-view was hyped like a Las Vegas prizefight but proved more of a pillow fight with both golfers in jovial mood, playing for a purse that was put up by sponsors and will go to a charity of Mickelson's choice. While the event lacked the tension provided by a Sunday back nine at the Masters, Woods set up a dramatic finish when his bump-and-run from beside the 17th green, with the match on the line, found the cup and brought the match to all square. "I just did not want the match to end on that hole," said Woods, who grabbed his only lead at the day with a birdie at 12 but gave it right back at the 13th. Woods' shot at 17 pumped some much-needed life into the match as the players headed to the 18th where Mickelson had a 32-foot putt for the win but failed to convert. Nothing was settled when the players returned to the 18th tee for the first extra hole and so they descended on the 93-yard hole where they had to wait as the grounds crew re-cut a hole on the 18th green. "To have a day like today, I just never thought we'd go to this extra hole," said Mickelson. "My heart just can't take much more of it." After the two most popular golfers of their era hit their opening tee shots at Shadow Creek, they set off for what proved to be an underwhelming round in which both failed to deliver the highlight reel-type shots that have defined their careers. Instead, Mickelson and Woods shared stories, complimented each other, laughed like long-lost friends and made side bets for eye-popping sums. While the pay-per-view event was priced at $19.99, promoters decided to offer it free online at some point during play because of what they described as technical issues that impacted user access. It is not yet known if viewers who paid for the event would be credited. Woods and Mickelson, who are among the world's highest-paid athletes, put up their own money for the side bets, including a whopping $1 million wager if either made eagle at the ninth hole. Neither golfer was able to cash in. Mickelson also earned $600,000 for winning three closest-to-the-pin side bets after losing $200,000 for failing to make a birdie at the opening hole. Money from side bets will also be donated to charity.

Phil Mickelson beats Woods in $9 million winner-take-all match

Bragging rights will be worth more than the $9 million prize money to&nbsp;Phil&nbsp;Mickelson&nbsp;when he takes on Tiger Woods in an 18-hole winner-takes-all pay-per-view showdown in Las Vegas.

For two of the world's richest athletes, the prospect of pocketing millions for playing an afternoon round at Shadow Creek Golf Club on Friday may not set the heart racing.

But for&nbsp;Mickelson,&nbsp;the thought of forever being able to wave that cheque in Woods' face was something priceless that left him giddy with excitement ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday clash.

"It's great to win the $9 million but I just don't want to lose to him and give him the satisfaction because the bragging rights are what is going to be even worse than the money," Mickelson&nbsp;said at a news conference on Tuesday to drum up interest in "The Match".

"Every time I see you I want to be able to rub it in. I want to sit in the Champions locker room at Augusta and talk smack. I want that."

That was about as close as Woods and&nbsp;Mickelson, two of the most fascinating and successful golfers of their generation, came to trading shots as they attempted to help sell the pay-per-view duel which can be seen for a modest $19.99.

Despite their best efforts the obligatory trash talk around the golfing cage match has been forced and limp.

Fifteen years ago the dislike was real and palatable, the jabs they took at each other stung.

But that once frosty relationship has thawed to the point that they play practice rounds together.

LOVE-IN

Anyone expecting the sort of foul mouth baiting that is part of boxing and UFC promotions were left sadly disappointed as the news conference turned into a love-in.

The 42-year-old Woods and&nbsp;Mickelson, 48, spent so much time lavishing praise on each other that it was hard to remember there was time when they actually disliked each other.

Even an attempt to end the news conference with a traditional boxing nose-to-nose stare down ended in farce with neither man able to keep a straight face for more than a few seconds before breaking into laughs and a hug.

"He's one of the greatest players to ever pick up a golf club," said Woods, the winner of 14 major titles.

"Greatest of all time," replied&nbsp;Mickelson, who has five majors in his trophy case.

One aspect of the event not manufactured is the competitiveness Woods and&nbsp;Mickelson&nbsp;bring to the golf course.

The showdown will be highlighted by several side bets and&nbsp;Mickelson&nbsp;wasted no time throwing down the gauntlet by betting Woods $100,000 that he would birdie the first hole.

Woods took the bait but not before upping the ante, telling&nbsp;Mickelson, "Why not $200,000".

"So you think you can make birdie on the first hole," said Woods smiling. "Double it."

The biggest bet being put down, however, is the one made by WarnerMedia and Turner Sports who are gambling there is enough interest to make the unique pay-per-view event a success.

"This is me versus him, this is winner take all and it has a unique special feel golf doesn't have all the time or rarely has ever had if ever," said&nbsp;Mickelson.

"I am hopeful that this is received well, I am hopeful we provide a glimpse into the future of what sport-watching is all about."

Bragging rights will be worth more than the $9 million prize money to Phil Mickelson when he takes on Tiger Woods in an 18-hole winner-takes-all pay-per-view showdown in Las Vegas.

Bragging rights will be worth more than the $9 million prize money to Phil Mickelson when he takes on Tiger Woods in an 18-hole winner-takes-all pay-per-view showdown in Las Vegas. For two of the world's richest athletes, the prospect of pocketing millions for playing an afternoon round at Shadow Creek Golf Club on Friday may not set the heart racing. But for Mickelson, the thought of forever being able to wave that cheque in Woods' face was something priceless that left him giddy with excitement ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday clash. "It's great to win the $9 million but I just don't want to lose to him and give him the satisfaction because the bragging rights are what is going to be even worse than the money," Mickelson said at a news conference on Tuesday to drum up interest in "The Match". "Every time I see you I want to be able to rub it in. I want to sit in the Champions locker room at Augusta and talk smack. I want that." That was about as close as Woods and Mickelson, two of the most fascinating and successful golfers of their generation, came to trading shots as they attempted to help sell the pay-per-view duel which can be seen for a modest $19.99. Despite their best efforts the obligatory trash talk around the golfing cage match has been forced and limp. Fifteen years ago the dislike was real and palatable, the jabs they took at each other stung. But that once frosty relationship has thawed to the point that they play practice rounds together. LOVE-IN Anyone expecting the sort of foul mouth baiting that is part of boxing and UFC promotions were left sadly disappointed as the news conference turned into a love-in. The 42-year-old Woods and Mickelson, 48, spent so much time lavishing praise on each other that it was hard to remember there was time when they actually disliked each other. Even an attempt to end the news conference with a traditional boxing nose-to-nose stare down ended in farce with neither man able to keep a straight face for more than a few seconds before breaking into laughs and a hug. "He's one of the greatest players to ever pick up a golf club," said Woods, the winner of 14 major titles. "Greatest of all time," replied Mickelson, who has five majors in his trophy case. One aspect of the event not manufactured is the competitiveness Woods and Mickelson bring to the golf course. The showdown will be highlighted by several side bets and Mickelson wasted no time throwing down the gauntlet by betting Woods $100,000 that he would birdie the first hole. Woods took the bait but not before upping the ante, telling Mickelson, "Why not $200,000". "So you think you can make birdie on the first hole," said Woods smiling. "Double it." The biggest bet being put down, however, is the one made by WarnerMedia and Turner Sports who are gambling there is enough interest to make the unique pay-per-view event a success. "This is me versus him, this is winner take all and it has a unique special feel golf doesn't have all the time or rarely has ever had if ever," said Mickelson. "I am hopeful that this is received well, I am hopeful we provide a glimpse into the future of what sport-watching is all about."

Golf: Win over Tiger Woods worth more than $9 million, says Mickelson

A limping Shubhankar Sharma shrugged off a heel injury to card an impressive five-under 67 to remain tied 20th at the end of the second day in the DP World Tour Championships here Friday.&nbsp;

Sharma, who rose to as high as tied-fifth at one stage, dropped a double bogey on Par-5 14th, but recovered with birdies on 15th and 18th as he was seven shots behind England's Matt Wallace (65).&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Wallace, with whom Shubhankar, played in the lead group of the Hero Indian Open, which the Englishman won, was in the pole position at 11-under after a sizzling seven-under.&nbsp;

"Hopefully, I am done with three-putts for the week," said Sharma, who also admitted that his injured heel did not bother him while hitting shots.&nbsp;

He said, "I had it well-cushioned and it did not bother me while hitting shots. There was some discomfort while walking in the morning when it was raw. It should get better over the next two days and I am looking forward to that."&nbsp;

Sharma added: "Today I hit very well and created chances and holed some putts, too. It was good to get that round in. Last few weeks I have often given it away after making a good start. Today also I had a fine start - birdie-birdie and then turned in three-under. The double on 14th was a bit disappointing."&nbsp;

"If you had asked me at the start of the day I would have taken 67, but now maybe I feel it could have been a shot or two better. But there is two more days to go," the youngster said.&nbsp;

Wallace was one shot ahead of the second placed trio of a resurgent 2016 Masters champion Danny Willett (67), Dubai-based Spaniard Adrian Otaegui (68) and Englishman Jordan Smith (68), all of whom were 10-under. At sole fifth with nine-under was Parick Reed (66).&nbsp;

Kiradech Aphibarnrat, runner-up here last year, exploded on the back nine with five birdies, three of which came in the last four holes, for a round of 66 that took his total to eight-under 136 and three shy of the leader. He was Tied-sixth alongside big stars like Rory McIlroy (67) and Tommy Fleetwood (67) and Reed at nine-under.

A limping Shubhankar Sharma shrugged off a heel injury to card an impressive five-under 67 to remain tied 20th at the end of the second day in the DP World Tour Championships here Friday.

A limping Shubhankar Sharma shrugged off a heel injury to card an impressive five-under 67 to remain tied 20th at the end of the second day in the DP World Tour Championships here Friday. Sharma, who rose to as high as tied-fifth at one stage, dropped a double bogey on Par-5 14th, but recovered with birdies on 15th and 18th as he was seven shots behind England's Matt Wallace (65). Meanwhile, Wallace, with whom Shubhankar, played in the lead group of the Hero Indian Open, which the Englishman won, was in the pole position at 11-under after a sizzling seven-under. "Hopefully, I am done with three-putts for the week," said Sharma, who also admitted that his injured heel did not bother him while hitting shots. He said, "I had it well-cushioned and it did not bother me while hitting shots. There was some discomfort while walking in the morning when it was raw. It should get better over the next two days and I am looking forward to that." Sharma added: "Today I hit very well and created chances and holed some putts, too. It was good to get that round in. Last few weeks I have often given it away after making a good start. Today also I had a fine start - birdie-birdie and then turned in three-under. The double on 14th was a bit disappointing." "If you had asked me at the start of the day I would have taken 67, but now maybe I feel it could have been a shot or two better. But there is two more days to go," the youngster said. Wallace was one shot ahead of the second placed trio of a resurgent 2016 Masters champion Danny Willett (67), Dubai-based Spaniard Adrian Otaegui (68) and Englishman Jordan Smith (68), all of whom were 10-under. At sole fifth with nine-under was Parick Reed (66). Kiradech Aphibarnrat, runner-up here last year, exploded on the back nine with five birdies, three of which came in the last four holes, for a round of 66 that took his total to eight-under 136 and three shy of the leader. He was Tied-sixth alongside big stars like Rory McIlroy (67) and Tommy Fleetwood (67) and Reed at nine-under.

Shubhankar Sharma cards 67 to remain tied 20th

The Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and TAKE Solutions have jointly launched the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational presented by TAKE Solutions. The tournament will be staged at the esteemed Chandigarh Golf Club from November 1 – 4, 2018.

The tournament, in its third edition, has been renamed from ‘TAKE Open Golf Championship’ to ‘Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational presented by TAKE Solutions’ as a gesture to honour Indian golfing legend Jeev Milkha Singh.

The event which will be staged at Jeev’s home course, the Chandigarh Golf Club, will offer a whopping Rs. 1.5 crore in prize money, the highest-ever for an event in Chandigarh.

The tournament is set to feature one of the strongest fields ever in Chandigarh. The week will see India’s leading golfing stars in action including the likes of Jeev Milkha Singh, Shiv Kapur, SSP Chawrasia, Jyoti Randhawa, Khalin Joshi, Ajeetesh Sandhu and Viraj Madappa, to name a few.

The foreign challenge will be led by the likes of Bangladesh’s Md Siddikur Rahman and Sri Lankans Mithun Perera, N Thangaraja and Anura Rohana.

This is the first time that a PGTI event has been named after an iconic Indian professional golfer. Jeev Milkha Singh conquered uncharted territory over two decades back when he became one of the first Indian golfers to taste success at the international level. Since then he has added many more firsts and Indian records to his name.

Jeev has the rare distinction of being the only Indian to have won the Asian Tour Order of Merit twice (in 2006 &amp; 2008). He has won multiple titles on the European Tour, Japan Golf Tour and Asian Tour and has 14 Major appearances to his name. Jeev has also achieved a career-high world ranking of 28, an Indian record.

The Pro-Am event of the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational 2018 presented by TAKE Solutions, played at the Chandigarh Golf Club on Wednesday was won by professional Digvijay Singh and his team comprising Mr. Jyoti Matharoo, Mr. Sanjay Talwar and Mr. Gurpreet Bakshi.

The Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and TAKE Solutions have jointly launched the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational presented by TAKE Solutions. The tournament will be staged at the esteemed Chandigarh Golf Club from November 1 – 4, 2018.

The Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and TAKE Solutions have jointly launched the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational presented by TAKE Solutions. The tournament will be staged at the esteemed Chandigarh Golf Club from November 1 – 4, 2018. The tournament, in its third edition, has been renamed from ‘TAKE Open Golf Championship’ to ‘Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational presented by TAKE Solutions’ as a gesture to honour Indian golfing legend Jeev Milkha Singh. The event which will be staged at Jeev’s home course, the Chandigarh Golf Club, will offer a whopping Rs. 1.5 crore in prize money, the highest-ever for an event in Chandigarh. The tournament is set to feature one of the strongest fields ever in Chandigarh. The week will see India’s leading golfing stars in action including the likes of Jeev Milkha Singh, Shiv Kapur, SSP Chawrasia, Jyoti Randhawa, Khalin Joshi, Ajeetesh Sandhu and Viraj Madappa, to name a few. The foreign challenge will be led by the likes of Bangladesh’s Md Siddikur Rahman and Sri Lankans Mithun Perera, N Thangaraja and Anura Rohana. This is the first time that a PGTI event has been named after an iconic Indian professional golfer. Jeev Milkha Singh conquered uncharted territory over two decades back when he became one of the first Indian golfers to taste success at the international level. Since then he has added many more firsts and Indian records to his name. Jeev has the rare distinction of being the only Indian to have won the Asian Tour Order of Merit twice (in 2006 & 2008). He has won multiple titles on the European Tour, Japan Golf Tour and Asian Tour and has 14 Major appearances to his name. Jeev has also achieved a career-high world ranking of 28, an Indian record. The Pro-Am event of the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational 2018 presented by TAKE Solutions, played at the Chandigarh Golf Club on Wednesday was won by professional Digvijay Singh and his team comprising Mr. Jyoti Matharoo, Mr. Sanjay Talwar and Mr. Gurpreet Bakshi.

Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational presented by TAKE Solutions to boast one of the strongest fields ever in Chandigarh

Shubhankar Sharma was in joint lead after 54 holes for the second time in a PGA Tour event, as he carded 6-under 66 to reach 19-under 197 at the TPC Kuala Lumpur West course Saturday.&nbsp;

Sharma, who held sole lead at the end of 54 hole at WGC0-Mexico, earlier this year, is tied with overnight co-leaders Gary Woodland (67) and Marc Leishman (67). Sharma had seven birdies and the day's lone bogey came after a gap of 21 holes since the second hole, his 11th hole on Friday.&nbsp;

That also means Sharma will play in the lead group of a PGA Tournament only the second time in his career. It is also the second time at the CIMB Classic, that an Indian player has had at least a share of the lead after 54 holes ? Anirban Lahiri was leader by four shots after three days in 2015, when Justin Thomas came from behind and won the title.&nbsp;

A win on Sunday will seal Sharma's berth at the Augusta Masters, a spot on Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii and also the Asian Tour Order of Merit.&nbsp;

Only one Indian, Arjun Atwal has won a PGA Tour title, the Wyndham Championships in 2010, and the next best finish in a PGA Tour event has been T-2 by Lahiri at the Memorial in 2017. Lahiri was also T-3 at 2015 CIMB.&nbsp;

Gaganjeet Bhullar (71) had three birdies against two bogeys to be 6-under 210 and T-42, while Anirban Lahiri (68) finally had some putts falling with six birdies, but he dropped a shot each on seventh and 17th.&nbsp;

Lahiri was 2-under and T-64th. Rahil Gangjee (73) was lying 77th at 5-over for three days.&nbsp;

Sharma's birdies came on second, third, fifth and seventh and then 10th, 13th and 17th. He missed a couple of short birdie putts, including a four-footer on 16th.&nbsp;

"Yes, I am very happy. I got off to a flyer, front nine was great as I was 4-under through seven. On the back nine I made a lot of crucial par putts and missed a few coming in, but really happy with the way I played and hung in there."&nbsp;

He also pointed out the par save on eighth was rather crucial, at which point he was 4-under through seven holes.&nbsp;

"It (the par) was very important, it could have been a momentum changer. I hit a terrible shot and then had a bad lie and tried to hit a good shot but didn't come off. Could have been a double bogey also, but that third chip was just perfect.&nbsp;

"I think that was the turning point for me. A bogey there would kind have pushed me back. It could have been a potential double as well because it was a tough chip as well."&nbsp;

He showed a lot of confidence, and talked about Sunday's plan. 
"I'll just chill out, I won't really do much. I'll just go in, hang out probably with Rahil, maybe with Anirban, talk a little and just do normal stuff that I've been doing every day.&nbsp;

"Good thing is that I've been in this position before so I know what happens and what my mind goes through, so I'll just try and relax myself as much as possible. And the way I'm playing, I'm pretty sure I'll play well tomorrow as well."&nbsp;

The leading trio was two shots ahead of South African Louis Oosthuizen (65) and the first-round leader Bronson Burgoon (67).&nbsp;

The day's lowest card came from the 2009 Open winner, Stewart Cink, who brought home a 63 and is now T-7 alongside five others.&nbsp;

Two-time CIMB winner, Justin Thomas (69) was 12-under and seven shots off the lead on another high-scoring day, when only as many as 60 of the 78 players shot in the 60s.&nbsp;

Shubhankar Sharma was in joint lead after 54 holes for the second time in a PGA Tour event, as he carded 6-under 66 to reach 19-under 197 at the TPC Kuala Lumpur West course Saturday.

Shubhankar Sharma was in joint lead after 54 holes for the second time in a PGA Tour event, as he carded 6-under 66 to reach 19-under 197 at the TPC Kuala Lumpur West course Saturday. Sharma, who held sole lead at the end of 54 hole at WGC0-Mexico, earlier this year, is tied with overnight co-leaders Gary Woodland (67) and Marc Leishman (67). Sharma had seven birdies and the day's lone bogey came after a gap of 21 holes since the second hole, his 11th hole on Friday. That also means Sharma will play in the lead group of a PGA Tournament only the second time in his career. It is also the second time at the CIMB Classic, that an Indian player has had at least a share of the lead after 54 holes ? Anirban Lahiri was leader by four shots after three days in 2015, when Justin Thomas came from behind and won the title. A win on Sunday will seal Sharma's berth at the Augusta Masters, a spot on Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii and also the Asian Tour Order of Merit. Only one Indian, Arjun Atwal has won a PGA Tour title, the Wyndham Championships in 2010, and the next best finish in a PGA Tour event has been T-2 by Lahiri at the Memorial in 2017. Lahiri was also T-3 at 2015 CIMB. Gaganjeet Bhullar (71) had three birdies against two bogeys to be 6-under 210 and T-42, while Anirban Lahiri (68) finally had some putts falling with six birdies, but he dropped a shot each on seventh and 17th. Lahiri was 2-under and T-64th. Rahil Gangjee (73) was lying 77th at 5-over for three days. Sharma's birdies came on second, third, fifth and seventh and then 10th, 13th and 17th. He missed a couple of short birdie putts, including a four-footer on 16th. "Yes, I am very happy. I got off to a flyer, front nine was great as I was 4-under through seven. On the back nine I made a lot of crucial par putts and missed a few coming in, but really happy with the way I played and hung in there." He also pointed out the par save on eighth was rather crucial, at which point he was 4-under through seven holes. "It (the par) was very important, it could have been a momentum changer. I hit a terrible shot and then had a bad lie and tried to hit a good shot but didn't come off. Could have been a double bogey also, but that third chip was just perfect. "I think that was the turning point for me. A bogey there would kind have pushed me back. It could have been a potential double as well because it was a tough chip as well." He showed a lot of confidence, and talked about Sunday's plan. "I'll just chill out, I won't really do much. I'll just go in, hang out probably with Rahil, maybe with Anirban, talk a little and just do normal stuff that I've been doing every day. "Good thing is that I've been in this position before so I know what happens and what my mind goes through, so I'll just try and relax myself as much as possible. And the way I'm playing, I'm pretty sure I'll play well tomorrow as well." The leading trio was two shots ahead of South African Louis Oosthuizen (65) and the first-round leader Bronson Burgoon (67). The day's lowest card came from the 2009 Open winner, Stewart Cink, who brought home a 63 and is now T-7 alongside five others. Two-time CIMB winner, Justin Thomas (69) was 12-under and seven shots off the lead on another high-scoring day, when only as many as 60 of the 78 players shot in the 60s.

Shubhankar Sharma takes share of lead at CIMB, eyes maiden PGA Tour title

Birds were released over fairways and ceremonial drives were struck as international golf returned to Pakistan on Thursday after an 11-year absence.

A full field of 132 players from around the globe were teeing up in the Asian Tour's UMA CNS Open Championship at Karachi Golf Club, the latest thawing of relations with the militancy-hit country that has spent years in the sporting wilderness.

"Coming back to Pakistan is a fantastic opportunity for us," Robert Andrew, event director of the Asian Tour told AFP, brushing off any security concerns.

"This is the starting point for future years after the success of this event." No major golf tour has visited Pakistan since 2007. The last scheduled tournament, in 2008, was cancelled after a wave of insurgent attacks.

"It is always good to be here as people are very lovely and friendly," said Australian golfer Marcus Both. "I came here 10 years ago. The perception is bad but in reality, it is very different." The 2009 attack on Sri Lanka's bus in Lahore, in which eight people were killed, caused all sporting visits to be suspended.

But successful military operations in the country's northwest near the Afghan border and crackdowns in urban centres, including the restive port city of Karachi, have improved the situation.

The country has twice hosted the Pakistan Super League cricket finals featuring international stars plus successful limited-over&nbsp;series&nbsp;against Zimbabwe, a World XI and Sri Lanka in the past 18 months.

They cleared the way for more sports with squash, tennis and now golf having returned.

- Walls come down -

Former Asian Tour winner and Indian national Digvijay Singh said arriving in Pakistan felt like home, suggesting sport could pave the road for better relations between Islamabad and Delhi.

"I am really feeling home here and we are so overwhelmingly welcomed here. We are seeing the same faces not different to us," Singh told reporters.

"Sports should bring the invisible walls down between the two countries," he added. 
India-Pakistan ties, including sports and cultural contacts, plummeted after deadly 2008 attacks in Mumbai, which New Delhi blamed on Pakistani militants.

While cricket remains the undisputed number one sport in Pakistan, golf is popular with the country's powerful army, with military areas where the top brass reside frequently home to some of Pakistan's best courses.

Pakistan's Navy are hosting this week's Asian Tour event, which has a $300,000 prize fund.

"There is a very overwhelming response by foreign players and that surprised us," said Naval Commodore Mushtaq Ahmed.

Pakistan hosted its first Asian Tour event in 1989, which was won by Filipino Frankie Minoza.

The country's only Asian Tour winner remains Taimur Hussain who triumphed at an event in Myanmar in 1998.

Birds were released over fairways and ceremonial drives were struck as international golf returned to Pakistan on Thursday after an 11-year absence. A full field of 132 players from around the globe were teeing up in the Asian Tour's UMA CNS Open Championship at Karachi Golf Club, the latest thawing of relations with the militancy-hit country that has spent years in the sporting wilderness.

Birds were released over fairways and ceremonial drives were struck as international golf returned to Pakistan on Thursday after an 11-year absence. A full field of 132 players from around the globe were teeing up in the Asian Tour's UMA CNS Open Championship at Karachi Golf Club, the latest thawing of relations with the militancy-hit country that has spent years in the sporting wilderness. "Coming back to Pakistan is a fantastic opportunity for us," Robert Andrew, event director of the Asian Tour told AFP, brushing off any security concerns. "This is the starting point for future years after the success of this event." No major golf tour has visited Pakistan since 2007. The last scheduled tournament, in 2008, was cancelled after a wave of insurgent attacks. "It is always good to be here as people are very lovely and friendly," said Australian golfer Marcus Both. "I came here 10 years ago. The perception is bad but in reality, it is very different." The 2009 attack on Sri Lanka's bus in Lahore, in which eight people were killed, caused all sporting visits to be suspended. But successful military operations in the country's northwest near the Afghan border and crackdowns in urban centres, including the restive port city of Karachi, have improved the situation. The country has twice hosted the Pakistan Super League cricket finals featuring international stars plus successful limited-over series against Zimbabwe, a World XI and Sri Lanka in the past 18 months. They cleared the way for more sports with squash, tennis and now golf having returned. - Walls come down - Former Asian Tour winner and Indian national Digvijay Singh said arriving in Pakistan felt like home, suggesting sport could pave the road for better relations between Islamabad and Delhi. "I am really feeling home here and we are so overwhelmingly welcomed here. We are seeing the same faces not different to us," Singh told reporters. "Sports should bring the invisible walls down between the two countries," he added. India-Pakistan ties, including sports and cultural contacts, plummeted after deadly 2008 attacks in Mumbai, which New Delhi blamed on Pakistani militants. While cricket remains the undisputed number one sport in Pakistan, golf is popular with the country's powerful army, with military areas where the top brass reside frequently home to some of Pakistan's best courses. Pakistan's Navy are hosting this week's Asian Tour event, which has a $300,000 prize fund. "There is a very overwhelming response by foreign players and that surprised us," said Naval Commodore Mushtaq Ahmed. Pakistan hosted its first Asian Tour event in 1989, which was won by Filipino Frankie Minoza. The country's only Asian Tour winner remains Taimur Hussain who triumphed at an event in Myanmar in 1998.

Birdies in the air: Golf back in Pakistan after 11-year hitch

The Kensville Golf &amp; Country Club and the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) jointly staged the Kensville Open 2018 presented by PGTI at the Kensville Golf &amp; Country Club near Ahmedabad from October 2 - 5, 2018. The tournament, carrying a prize purse of Rs 40 lakhs, returned for its second edition. &nbsp;

Delhi's Sachin Baisoya, fresh from his season's best finish in Noida last month, set the bar in round one as he carded an error-free five-under-67 to enjoy a one-shot lead. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Chennai-based rookie Shivnaren Srinivasan fired a hole-in-one on the 11th during his round of three-over-75. He was placed tied 51st. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Gurugram-based professional Tapy Ghai surged ahead in round two. The 22-year-old Ghai shot a two-under-70 to take a one-shot lead at five-under-139. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Chandigarh's Akshay Sharma, who won the last PGTI event in Noida last month, found himself in contention once again. The 28-year-old Akshay came up with a four-under-68 in round three to take a two-shot lead at seven-under-209. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Gurguram's Tapy Ghai produced a fiery last round of 67 to register his maiden win. The 22-year-old, playing only his second season as a professional, marched to the victory of Kensville Open 2018 with a two-shot margin having totaled 10-under-278 for the week.

The Kensville Golf & Country Club and the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) jointly staged the Kensville Open 2018 presented by PGTI at the Kensville Golf & Country Club near Ahmedabad from October 2 - 5, 2018.

The Kensville Golf & Country Club and the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) jointly staged the Kensville Open 2018 presented by PGTI at the Kensville Golf & Country Club near Ahmedabad from October 2 - 5, 2018. The tournament, carrying a prize purse of Rs 40 lakhs, returned for its second edition. Delhi's Sachin Baisoya, fresh from his season's best finish in Noida last month, set the bar in round one as he carded an error-free five-under-67 to enjoy a one-shot lead. Chennai-based rookie Shivnaren Srinivasan fired a hole-in-one on the 11th during his round of three-over-75. He was placed tied 51st. Gurugram-based professional Tapy Ghai surged ahead in round two. The 22-year-old Ghai shot a two-under-70 to take a one-shot lead at five-under-139. Chandigarh's Akshay Sharma, who won the last PGTI event in Noida last month, found himself in contention once again. The 28-year-old Akshay came up with a four-under-68 in round three to take a two-shot lead at seven-under-209. Gurguram's Tapy Ghai produced a fiery last round of 67 to register his maiden win. The 22-year-old, playing only his second season as a professional, marched to the victory of Kensville Open 2018 with a two-shot margin having totaled 10-under-278 for the week.

Tapy Ghai wins Kensville Open 2018

A spectator hit by a tee shot played by US&nbsp;golfer Brooks Koepka during the Ryder Cup has lost sight in her right eye, AFP reported.

The woman was stuck when the American's drive veered wide of the fairway on the sixth hole on Friday, the opening day of the event which Europe went on to win. AFP named her as Corine Remande.

"Doctor's told me I had lost the use of that eye," She told the French news agency, adding she hadn't felt any pain at the time she was hit.

A Reuters reporter had witnessed Remande being tended to by medics, with a heavily bandaged eye. Koepka had stopped to see how she was.

A spokesman for the European Tour, a co-organiser of the Ryder Cup event outside Paris, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A spectator hit by a tee shot played by US golfer Brooks Koepka during the Ryder Cup has lost sight in her right eye, AFP reported. The woman was stuck when the American's drive veered wide of the fairway on the sixth hole on Friday, the opening day of the event which Europe went on to win.

A spectator hit by a tee shot played by US golfer Brooks Koepka during the Ryder Cup has lost sight in her right eye, AFP reported. The woman was stuck when the American's drive veered wide of the fairway on the sixth hole on Friday, the opening day of the event which Europe went on to win. AFP named her as Corine Remande. "Doctor's told me I had lost the use of that eye," She told the French news agency, adding she hadn't felt any pain at the time she was hit. A Reuters reporter had witnessed Remande being tended to by medics, with a heavily bandaged eye. Koepka had stopped to see how she was. A spokesman for the European Tour, a co-organiser of the Ryder Cup event outside Paris, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Ryder Cup spectator loses sight after being hit by Brooks Koepka drive

Five key moments in the 2018 Ryder Cup

A despondent Tiger Woods admitted that he "was a contributing factor" as to why the United States surrendered the Ryder Cup to Europe, after losing all four of his matches at Le Golf National.

The 14-time major champion suffered only his second singles defeat in the match-play showdown with a 2 and 1 loss to Jon Rahm as Europe charged to victory.

His miserable Ryder Cup record now stands at 13 wins, 21 losses and three halves.

"It's disappointing because I went 0-4, and that's four points to the European team," admitted Woods.

"I'm one of the contributing factors to why we lost the Cup, and it's not a lot of fun.

"It's frustrating because we came here, I thought we were all playing pretty well, and I just didn't perform at the level that I had been playing, and just got behind early in the matches and never got back."

The former world number one headed to Paris in high spirits after capping a magnificent comeback season from injury with his first title since 2013 at the Tour Championship last week.

But it all went badly wrong, losing twice in the fourballs alongside Patrick Reed and once in the foursomes with Bryson DeChambeau -- all defeats coming at the hands of Tommy Fleetwood and Francesco Molinari.

A despondent Tiger Woods admitted that he "was a contributing factor" as to why the United States surrendered the Ryder Cup to Europe, after losing all four of his matches at Le Golf National.

A despondent Tiger Woods admitted that he "was a contributing factor" as to why the United States surrendered the Ryder Cup to Europe, after losing all four of his matches at Le Golf National. The 14-time major champion suffered only his second singles defeat in the match-play showdown with a 2 and 1 loss to Jon Rahm as Europe charged to victory. His miserable Ryder Cup record now stands at 13 wins, 21 losses and three halves. "It's disappointing because I went 0-4, and that's four points to the European team," admitted Woods. "I'm one of the contributing factors to why we lost the Cup, and it's not a lot of fun. "It's frustrating because we came here, I thought we were all playing pretty well, and I just didn't perform at the level that I had been playing, and just got behind early in the matches and never got back." The former world number one headed to Paris in high spirits after capping a magnificent comeback season from injury with his first title since 2013 at the Tour Championship last week. But it all went badly wrong, losing twice in the fourballs alongside Patrick Reed and once in the foursomes with Bryson DeChambeau -- all defeats coming at the hands of Tommy Fleetwood and Francesco Molinari.

I'm one of the reasons we lost Ryder Cup, says Tiger Woods

Francesco Molinari fittingly took the glory as Europe regained the&nbsp;Ryder&nbsp;Cup in dominant style on Sunday, the Italian beating Phil Mickelson on the 16th to post the point needed to reach the magic tally of 14.5.

Mickelson conceded the hole after firing his tee shot into the water with Molinari on the green to leave the Italian as the first European to win all five matches in a week -- having not won any of his previous six.

Europe were effectively already assured of victory when he teed off as the Italian, Henrik Stenson and Sergio Garcia were all dormie and guaranteed at least half a point from their games - with Europe at that stage needing one.

They had started the day 10-6 up, needing to secure four and a half of the 12 points available to win back the trophy and extend their stranglehold on home soil that dates back to 1993.

Only twice before had a team come from four down going into the singles to win -- the US doing so at Brookline in 1999 and Europe in 2012 in the 'Miracle of Medinah', but another stunning comeback never really looked on the cards.

Justin Thomas, Webb Simpson and Tony Finau gave Jim Furyk's team a glimmer of hope with early wins but then the European points started pouring in from all over the course.

Thorbjorn Olesen hammered Jordan Spieth and fellow rookie Jon Rahm beat Tiger Woods -- leaving the 14-times major champion with a stunning four defeats out of four.

Ian Poulter, "Mr&nbsp;Ryder&nbsp;Cup", then produced probably the loudest cheer of the week when world number one Dustin Johnson conceded on the 18th green to leave Europe on the verge.

It was then just a question of which match out on the course would finish next and it proved to be Molinari's - sparking amazing scenes of celebration watched by the biggest galleries in the event's history.

Francesco Molinari fittingly took the glory as Europe regained the Ryder Cup in dominant style on Sunday, the Italian beating Phil Mickelson on the 16th to post the point needed to reach the magic tally of 14.

Francesco Molinari fittingly took the glory as Europe regained the Ryder Cup in dominant style on Sunday, the Italian beating Phil Mickelson on the 16th to post the point needed to reach the magic tally of 14.5. Mickelson conceded the hole after firing his tee shot into the water with Molinari on the green to leave the Italian as the first European to win all five matches in a week -- having not won any of his previous six. Europe were effectively already assured of victory when he teed off as the Italian, Henrik Stenson and Sergio Garcia were all dormie and guaranteed at least half a point from their games - with Europe at that stage needing one. They had started the day 10-6 up, needing to secure four and a half of the 12 points available to win back the trophy and extend their stranglehold on home soil that dates back to 1993. Only twice before had a team come from four down going into the singles to win -- the US doing so at Brookline in 1999 and Europe in 2012 in the 'Miracle of Medinah', but another stunning comeback never really looked on the cards. Justin Thomas, Webb Simpson and Tony Finau gave Jim Furyk's team a glimmer of hope with early wins but then the European points started pouring in from all over the course. Thorbjorn Olesen hammered Jordan Spieth and fellow rookie Jon Rahm beat Tiger Woods -- leaving the 14-times major champion with a stunning four defeats out of four. Ian Poulter, "Mr Ryder Cup", then produced probably the loudest cheer of the week when world number one Dustin Johnson conceded on the 18th green to leave Europe on the verge. It was then just a question of which match out on the course would finish next and it proved to be Molinari's - sparking amazing scenes of celebration watched by the biggest galleries in the event's history.

Europe regain Ryder Cup with dominant singles display

Justin Thomas defeated Rory McIlroy 1-up in the opening singles match at the Ryder Cup on Sunday as the United States cut Europe's lead to one point -- 10.5 to 9.5.

A calamitous 18th hole for McIlroy saw the Northern Irishman find the bunker with his tee shot, as well as the water, as Thomas picked up his fourth point of the competition.

"Hopefully they'll look up there and see I got that point. You can feel it out here, just the American roars are a lot different, for a good reason, and I'm hoping to hear some more," said Thomas.

Paul Casey and Brooks Koepka halved the second match, while Webb Simpson beat Justin Rose 3 and 2 after carding six birdies to put away the Olympic champion on the Albatros course.

Tony Finau romped to a 6 and 4 win over fellow rookie Tommy Fleetwood, denying the Englishman the chance to become the first European to win five points from a possible five at the Ryder Cup.

Justin Thomas defeated Rory McIlroy 1-up in the opening singles match at the Ryder Cup on Sunday as the United States cut Europe's lead to one point -- 10.5 to 9.

Justin Thomas defeated Rory McIlroy 1-up in the opening singles match at the Ryder Cup on Sunday as the United States cut Europe's lead to one point -- 10.5 to 9.5. A calamitous 18th hole for McIlroy saw the Northern Irishman find the bunker with his tee shot, as well as the water, as Thomas picked up his fourth point of the competition. "Hopefully they'll look up there and see I got that point. You can feel it out here, just the American roars are a lot different, for a good reason, and I'm hoping to hear some more," said Thomas. Paul Casey and Brooks Koepka halved the second match, while Webb Simpson beat Justin Rose 3 and 2 after carding six birdies to put away the Olympic champion on the Albatros course. Tony Finau romped to a 6 and 4 win over fellow rookie Tommy Fleetwood, denying the Englishman the chance to become the first European to win five points from a possible five at the Ryder Cup.

Justin Thomas outduels McIlroy as US hit back at Ryder Cup

An emotional Paul Casey fought to hold back tears after claiming his first Ryder Cup win since 2008 on Saturday, saying he had "desperately" wanted to return to the matchplay showdown.

After being persuaded to retake a European Tour card by captain Thomas Bjorn in order to be eligible for this year's Ryder Cup in France, he sealed an impressive 3 and 2 victory over Dustin Johnson and Rickie Fowler alongside Tyrrell Hatton.

"Ask him (Hatton) a question. Let me get my... honestly, let me get my breath," stammered Casey after securing Europe's seventh of eight straight wins at Le Golf National.

The 41-year-old was left out of the side by Colin Montgomerie in 2010 despite being the world number seven, slipping down the rankings after struggling with injuries and poor form.

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Four. Straight. Birdies.<a href="https://twitter.com/Paul_Casey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paul_Casey</a> is feeling it. 🔥<a href="https://t.co/Cqikx26OQc">pic.twitter.com/Cqikx26OQc</a>
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Paul Casey &amp; Tyrrell Hatton speak after their match win<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RyderCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RyderCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamEurope?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamEurope</a> <a href="https://t.co/VqRCjnugqJ">pic.twitter.com/VqRCjnugqJ</a>
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But he has rediscovered his best over the last four years, and has been in fine fettle this week, having almost inspired a comeback against Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas on Friday before reeling off five birdies in the first six holes Saturday.

"It has been 10 years. Desperately wanted to be back on this team because I know how good it is," said Casey after regaining his composure.

"I mean, all these guys are amazing, and you know, once you're a Ryder Cupper, you're always a Ryder Cupper. I can't tell you how proud I am."

Casey became one of only six men in Ryder Cup history to make a hole-in-one at the Ryder Cup at the K Club in 2006 and has now won six points from 11 matches.

"Obviously playing alongside Paul, he's a Ryder Cup legend," added Hatton. "What a player he is. It was the Casey Express train the front nine. I was just trying to help out when I could."

An emotional Paul Casey fought to hold back tears after claiming his first Ryder Cup win since 2008 on Saturday, saying he had "desperately" wanted to return to the matchplay showdown.

An emotional Paul Casey fought to hold back tears after claiming his first Ryder Cup win since 2008 on Saturday, saying he had "desperately" wanted to return to the matchplay showdown. After being persuaded to retake a European Tour card by captain Thomas Bjorn in order to be eligible for this year's Ryder Cup in France, he sealed an impressive 3 and 2 victory over Dustin Johnson and Rickie Fowler alongside Tyrrell Hatton. "Ask him (Hatton) a question. Let me get my... honestly, let me get my breath," stammered Casey after securing Europe's seventh of eight straight wins at Le Golf National. The 41-year-old was left out of the side by Colin Montgomerie in 2010 despite being the world number seven, slipping down the rankings after struggling with injuries and poor form. Four. Straight. Birdies.@Paul_Casey is feeling it. 🔥pic.twitter.com/Cqikx26OQc — PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) September 29, 2018 × "Once you taste the Ryder Cup, there's nothing else like it." Paul Casey & Tyrrell Hatton speak after their match win#RyderCup #TeamEurope pic.twitter.com/VqRCjnugqJ — PGA of America (@PGA) September 29, 2018 × But he has rediscovered his best over the last four years, and has been in fine fettle this week, having almost inspired a comeback against Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas on Friday before reeling off five birdies in the first six holes Saturday. "It has been 10 years. Desperately wanted to be back on this team because I know how good it is," said Casey after regaining his composure. "I mean, all these guys are amazing, and you know, once you're a Ryder Cupper, you're always a Ryder Cupper. I can't tell you how proud I am." Casey became one of only six men in Ryder Cup history to make a hole-in-one at the Ryder Cup at the K Club in 2006 and has now won six points from 11 matches. "Obviously playing alongside Paul, he's a Ryder Cup legend," added Hatton. "What a player he is. It was the Casey Express train the front nine. I was just trying to help out when I could."

Paul Casey revels in first Ryder Cup win for decade

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