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Journalism of Courage
Colin Montgomerie duly wrapped up his record eighth European Order of Merit title here on Sunday, but blew his chances of winning the Volvo Masters after an error-strewn final round.
That honour went to Ireland’s Paul McGinley who followed his superb 65 on Saturday with a bogey-free 67 to steal in for a two-stroke victory over Sergio Garcia. It was the biggest win of the 39-year-old Dubliner’s career.
New Zealander Michael Campbell, the only player at the start of the day who could have prevented Montgomerie from winning the tour title, never threatened with a disappointing 72.
Montgomerie’s Order of Merit win caps a magnificent comeback year for the 42-year-old scot who fell as low as 83rd in the world rankings in the spring before revitalising his career following a second place finish at the British Open in July.
It comes six years after he won his last tour title in 1999 at the end of an unprecedented seven-in-a-row run.
Montgomerie said that after an emotional past year, to win the Order of Merit once again was a huge tonic.
“All credit to Paul McGinley for winning, but I had my own Volvo Masters to win today — and I did that,” said the Scot.
“I had a lot to lose this week and against the US Open champion who has had a great year. I was watching his score all the time as I was going around.”
