Published : Dec. 1, 2013 - 18:48
Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland poses with the winner’s trophy on Sunday. (AFP-Yonhap News)
SYDNEY (AP) ― Rory McIlroy birdied the 18th hole to beat Adam Scott at the Australian Open on Sunday, winning for the first time in 2013 and denying Scott the rare Australian triple crown.
McIlroy started the last round four shots behind Scott but drew even when he eagled the seventh and birdied the eighth.
Scott went a shot ahead with a birdie at the ninth, then the pair went shot for shot over the back nine before the tournament’s dramatic finish on the final hole.
Scott’s approach shot went over the back of the green and his chip went well past the hole, with two putts bringing a bogey. McIlroy hit his approach to 10 feet and sank the putt to claim victory by a shot.
“I wanted to get a win and finally I’ve been able to get one,” McIlroy said.
“But more satisfying than that is being able to take one of the best players in the world down the stretch and come out on top.”