Russell Knox admitted it had been a dream come true to claim the first European Tour title of his career on Sunday as he won the WGC-HSBC Champions.

Knox, who had started the final 18 holes in a share of the lead, shot a final-round 68 at the Sheshan International Golf Club to clinch a two-shot victory over Kevin Kisner.

Danny Willett finished very strongly to give his Race to Dubai hopes a major boost as he posted a superb 62, which included 10 birdies, to end the tournament in a share of third.

Knox is the first Scotsman to win a WGC event, with birdies on the tenth, 11th and 16th holes proving crucial.

He said: “It’s incredible. I always hoped it was going to happen but you’re just never sure. There’s just so many unbelievable players on the tours all around the world and to win at this stage is a dream come true. I still can’t quite believe it.

“Deep down in my bones I felt I was capable of winning. I thought it was going to be maybe another year. But I’m glad it happened now.”

Kisner is this year’s nearly man as he has been beaten in three play-offs on the US PGA Tour in 2015, while Ross Fisher finished in a share of third with Willett on 17-under after a closing 68 with Branden Grace and Dustin Johnson a further shot back.

Rory McIlroy finished with an impressive 66 alongside Daniel Berger, Sergio Garcia, Thongchai Jaidee, Marc Leishman and Henrik Stenson in a share of 11th.