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Hindu winner for Volvo Masters

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Kevin Reardon / 2006-10-30 12:02:46

Jeev Milkha Singh certain loves a Volvo! The 34 year old Indian golfer from Chandigarth followed up his victory in the Volvo China Open earlier this year by capturing The European Tour's season-ending event, the Volvo Masters on his debut appearance at Valderrama. Not for the first time, the Volvo Masters lived up to its billing as a climactic finish to the year. With a gripping sub-plot involving Padraig Harrington just edging out Paul Casey for the Order of Merit crown by the small matter of €35,252 (£23,616), the tournament simply sizzled from start to finish. Indeed going into the final afternoon on the very final day of the season the identity of the European Tour Order of Merit winner still remained a mystery with all four contenders still gunning for the Harry Vardon Trophy.

Only current Number One Paul Casey, at six over par, appeared to have no prospect of lifting the title at Valderrama. Padraig Harrington, David Howell and Robert Karlsson most certainly did, as all three sat in a group of 18 players within four shots of 54-hole leader, Jeev Milkha Singh of India.

But it was Singh who carded a one-over 72 to pocket a cheque of euros 666,660 (USD 840,855), the biggest by any Indian in an individual sport who capped a brilliant year by lifting the Volvo Masters of Europe. The Indian golfer had earlier this year redeemed his career by winning the Volvo China Open in Beijing, to become the first Asian to win an European tour title in Europe.

Jeev's total of two-under 282 gave him a one-shot win over three of Europe's finest talents, Luke Donald (69), Sergio Garcia (72) and Padraig Harrington (69), all of whom finished at one-under 283.

Jeev finished with rounds of 71, 71, 68 and 72.

"It is a great feeling. It all started with the Volvo China Open and I am happy I could do it again. This is really a big win," said Jeev.

"I never looked at the scorebroad the whole day and saw it only on the 18th, when I realised I had a two-shot lead. I lagged the first putt and then tapped in for a five (bogey)," he said.

Image courtesy of Dave and Margaret Watson, photographers.