AG News: Rose reclaims #1 ranking after Turkish Open win
Justin Rose soared back to the top of the world rankings after edging out Haotong Li in a thrilling finish at the Turkish Airlines Open.
Rory McIlroy delivered a closing six-under-par 66 to charge to a one-shot victory in the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.
The Northern Irishman, 25, trailed Thomas Bjorn by seven shots overnight before overhauling the big Dane after a stumble which left him with a closing 75.
Englishman Luke Donald was seeking an eagle at the last to force a play-off which never came thanks to him finding water in front of the green with his second shot. It meant that Shane Lowry’s amazing birdie putt on 18 earned him second place on his own after closing with a 68.
It had been a topsy-turvy week for McIlroy as the media concentration seemed to be more on his personal life than his professional one. However, McIlroy managed to push all other thoughts to the back of his mind and secure a first ever win on European soil.
He also becomes the first Northern Irishman to win the event and equals the largest final round comeback – matching the incredible seven shots Simon Khan overcame to win in 2010.
McIlroy toiled for long periods before finally taking the lead outright for the first time with a birdie on the 71st hole, before making another on the last to finish 14 under par – one ahead of Lowry with two-time winner Donald and Bjorn a shot back in third.
Speaking to BBC Sport after the game, McIlroy said: "I can't explain it. It's obviously a week of mixed emotions. I am looking at the trophy saying 'How the hell did it happen?'
"I was asked in an interview how I feel and I don't know. I feel happy that I've won but it's been a weird week.
"I really wanted to win before going into the second major of the season. I couldn't have asked for a better way to prepare."
Nike VRS Covert 2.0 Tour Driver
Nike Golf VR X3X Toe Sweep Wedge
Justin Rose soared back to the top of the world rankings after edging out Haotong Li in a thrilling finish at the Turkish Airlines Open.
Xander Schauffele won the WGC-HSBC Champions cementing his place as one America’s brightest golfing talents. But it was matched in significance by Cameron Champ's maiden PGA Tour victory