David Howell produced his best golf for some time to beat American Peter Uihlein and win the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at St Andrew’s on Sunday.
The English veteran, now aged 38 and a former Ryder Cup player, had not figured in the finish of any major tournaments for some time, but called on reserves of determination to reel in Uihlein at the Scottish course, coming out on top in a play-off, his first first success in five such scenarios.
Uihlein was favourite to land the event, having carded a 60 in the second round to take a two-shot lead into the final day, but Howell surged home with a five-under par 67 to force a playoff before sealing victory with a birdy at the second extra hole.
It was due reward for Howell after negotiating three courses over the first three days, before the top 60 professionals and the top 20 teams competed in the final round.
“As a pro, to win at the home of golf is quite amazing. It has been a long, long road from the depths of despair,” he said.
“I have had a lot of support from people around me and this is for them, too. It is sweet and a dream.”
England’s Tom Lewis produced a final round of 64 to end on 22 under par for a share of third place with Ireland’s Shane Lowry.
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