Worldwide Golf

GRAEME McDowell secured his fifth European Tour title at the Celtic Manor Wales Open, enhancing his bid to return to the venue as part of Europe’s Ryder Cup team later this year.

McDowell, who made his Ryder Cup bow two years ago after two wins in Europe, shot a final round 8-under-par 63 to post a 15-under-par total and win by three shots from Welshman Rhys Davies who carded a 62.

“I think that’s the best final round I’ve ever played to win a tournament,” said McDowell. “The first 11 holes was dream golf and I am ecstatic. I feel like I’m in the form of my life right now and I really feel I have a big event in me. To win around here is certainly going to stand me in good stead.”

Luke Donald finished two shots further back on 10-under-par while Scot Stephen Gallacher bogeyed the final two holes to finish in a three-way tie for fourth with Robert Rock and Italian Edoardo Molinari.

McDowell took home prize money of €350,940 for his first win since the 2008 Barclays Scottish Open and it takes him to the verge of the qualification places to make Colin Montgomerie’s team to take on the United States in October.