Tyrrell Hatton becomes first Englishman to win Arnold Palmer Invitational and scoops £1.28million prize
TYRRELL HATTON sealed the first English win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in Florida.
The 2018 Ryder Cup ace, 28, secured a gutsy one-shot victory at Bay Hill after carding a final-round two-over-par 74.
It was Hatton’s maiden US Tour title and after holding off the challenge of playing partner Aussie Marc Leishman he took a £1.28million first prize with a four-under total.
Hatton’s two-stroke overnight lead went in the first five holes in tough conditions as only four players finished below par.
The High Wycombe ace said: “It was such a tough day. After my double bogey on the 11th I thought I’d played my way out of it because I didn’t see the scoreboard.
“Then that final two-foot putt at 18 . . . I’ve never been so nervous. I won’t ever forget this week.”
World No 1 Rory McIlroy, tied second at the start of the day, had two double bogeys in a 76 that saw him slip back to level par and a share of fifth place.
DAVID DRYSDALE was close to tears after his wait for a first title continued at the Qatar Masters.
The Scot, 44, was playing his 498th event and had a 10ft putt on the last to finally win.
But he missed and was then beaten by Jorge Campillo after five dramatic play-off holes.