AUGUSTA: World number one Scottie Scheffler claimed the Masters for his first major on Sunday.
Scheffler won with a one-under 71, missing two short putts for a double bogey on 18, to finish 10 under par and claim the Green Jacket at Augusta.
The 25-year-old American finished three shots clear of Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, who shot an extraordinary 64.
Australia’s Cameron Smith, in the last pair with Scheffler, hit a 73.
World number six Smith was aiming for a rare double of Players Championship and Masters victories, but ended up finishing third on five under alongside Ireland’s Shane Lowry.
McIlroy, who started the day one over, raised hopes of a sensational comeback when he holed out of the greenside bunker amid incredible scenes on the 18th, moving within three shots of the lead.
However, Scheffler remained steady and extended his advantage, which meant his late wobble on the 18th green did not matter.
The US Ryder Cup star held a three-shot overnight lead and continued his recent dominance with another commanding performance in Sunday’s final round.
Afterwards Scheffler revealed he “cried like a baby” on Sunday morning because he doubted if he was ready to win one of the sport’s most iconic tournaments.
