Adam Scott has bagged his 12th US PGA Tour victory after a nail biting duel with Sergio Garcia at the Honda Classic on Monday, exciting Australian hopes just six weeks out from The Masters.
The 35-year-old recorded his first win anywhere in the world in 21 months and his 28th career professional title, holding off Spaniard Garcia for a one-shot triumph at Palm Beach gardens in Florida.
The 2013 Masters champion now boasts more wins on the US PGA Tour than any golfer under the age of 40.
Exhale, Adam.
You're a winner again. 🏆 pic.twitter.com/3xmYQ4Rkt3
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 28, 2016
While many commentators were doubtful Scott would enjoy the same form with a short putter, the Queenslander followed his second-place finish at the Northern Trust Open last week with today’s victory.
“I hit a lot of good putts today; some didn’t go in but it’s hard to get it close here,” Scott said after his win. “I played exceptional on Saturday and just had to reel in my expectations for today.
“It was a good feeling to hit putts and see them go in. I got off to a dream start to set the pace to make sure it was me and Sergio (going down the stretch). Things got tough at times, but that’s expected on such a tough track. It was nice to hit some quality shots coming in and, luckily for me, it was just enough.”
Winner! Adam Scott has claimed @TheHondaClassic.
🏆 #QuickHits https://t.co/cujAixqx55
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 28, 2016
Less than two months out from the three-year anniversary of his historic win at Augusta, Scott said his results on the course were reflective of a balanced home life.
“It feels very good; it’s been a great transition (to fatherhood). I’m certainly trying to balance (things) on and off the course. I’ve had a lot of things changing but it’s settled down now and it’s fantastic. My wife and daughter are very happy.”
Adam Scott's tee shot at last leg of The Bear Trap …#QuickHits https://t.co/NN3LsBd0fA
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 28, 2016
Wow, Adam Scott. Brilliant. #QuickHits https://t.co/kdwfwGBoSa
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 28, 2016
Only perfect.
Scott takes the early lead. #QuickHits https://t.co/PzxsN0rbai
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 28, 2016
Sergio Garcia: "I don't feel like my swing is anywhere near where I want it to be… but [Scott] played great. He played better than me."
— Jason Sobel (@JasonSobelGolf) February 28, 2016