Back in the winner’s circle again.
Graeme McDowell shot a final-round even-par 70 to finish 12 under and win the Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers on Sunday in Saudi Arabia. It is his 11th European Tour title.
He’s now won in three different decades, has 16 professional wins across 13 different countries and finds himself back inside the top 50 of the Official World Golf Ranking.
The 40-year-old McDowell finished two shots clear of defending champion Dustin Johnson, whose 3-under 67 (which included an eagle on the final hole) just wasn’t enough.
LEADERBOARD: Saudi International
“It’s special,” McDowell said after his round. “I’ve been working hard the last year and a half. I want to be back up there one more time just to be able to play against these guys.”
McDowell said he’s excited to be back in great form, and that it happened “a little faster than I expected.” He’s hoping this win propels him forward and lays the foundations “for having a big year.”
Kevin (Kirk, McDowell’s coach) said to me, ‘There’s no reason why the best golf in your career can’t still be ahead of you.’ I like that,” said McDowell. “I like that kind of idea. I like that focus.”
Phil Mickelson, Thomas Pieters and Gavin Green finished T-3 at 9 under, followed by Ross Fisher, Victor Dubuisson, Sergio Garcia, Abraham Ancer and Thomas Detry T-6 at 7 under.
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