Webb Simpson cards 65, loses by one stroke
The Irishman, Padraig Harrington sealed the victory at the Port Royal Golf Club with a commanding display on Wednesday, to win his PGA Grand Slam of Golf in three attempts.
The Irishman shot four-under 67 for the day but it was enough to fend off the late charge from the US Open champion Webb Simpson.
Simpson started the day three shots behind the Irishman but soon gained pace as they progressed. The US Open winner had the perfect front nine, birdying the 3rd, 5th, 7th and the 8th hole.
Simpson was one back when the group turned over for the back nine but then came the class of Harrington, who shot three consecutive birdies on the 11th, 12th and 13th hole to lead his way to victory.
Simpson, however, was in no mood to surrender this early. He too kept the foot on the accelerator. Webb birdied the 14th and 17th hole but it was not enough.
Nevertheless, shooting a flawless round under immense pressure must have given him some confidence.
Simpson praised the character shown by the Irishman on Wednesday. It is not easy to play when somebody is right behind you and catching up on your score. However, Harrington held the nerve for a victory.
"He was playing well and he made the putts you've got to make," said the American, who won his first major title at the US Open, in June.
Simpson has had a successful season so far. Although he has won only once, nevertheless he has been playing some decent golf.
The fact that he won the major makes his year a big success. However, he would want to add more titles to his account before the start of the next season.
Overall it has been an excellent experience for the American at Port Royal Golf Club. One of the delights of his game here was his putting.
The world number eight made some magnificent putts at the PGA Grand Slam of Golf. Although he is not known for his putting, but this is one encouraging factor that he will take from this event.
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