Italy's Francesco Molinari came though an epic battle with World Number 1 Lee Westwood to secure a one-stroke victory in the WGC-HSBC Champions tournament at Sheshan International Golf Club in China.
Molinari, who led from round one, fired a closing round of 67 to hold off the Englishman and bag his second European Tour title. The victory vaulted him into the top-15 on the Official World Golf Ranking.
"It feels really special right now," said the Italian. "I'm obviously amazed with the way I played and, you know, to have the number 1 player in the world trailing you, it's not easy."
Molinari took a one shot lead over Westwood into the last round and he maintained his advantage throughout the course of the final day's play. The pair matched each other blow for blow, Westwood never able to get on terms with Molinari.
Westwood came up shy of the green with his delicate chip and had to get up-and-down to save par. When Molinari converted his birdie chance, the Italian's lead was extended to two.
"Sometimes somebody just plays a bit better and that's what Francesco did," said Westwood who retained his position at the top of the Official World Golf Ranking. "I thought he deserved to win. But it's been a very good week and I've played well so I'm pleased."
Scotland's Richie Ramsay also enjoyed a great week to finish in a tie for third with Luke Donald of England. The result was sufficient to guarantee the Scot a place at the season-ending Dubai World Championship.
WGC - HSBC Champions Sheshan International GC, Shanghai, China Nov 4-7, purse €3,000,000, par 72
