Martin Kaymer has continued his love affair with the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship by repelling the challenge of Ian Poulter to win the tournament for the second time in three years.

The 25-year-old German got his 2010 European Tour season off to the ideal start by playing it safe with his golf ball on the final hole to gain the birdie he needed to take a one-shot triumph.

Kaymer, who shot a six-under-par 66 over his closing 18 holes, is now halfway towards meeting one of his goals for the season, while he substantially boosted the chances of achieving another by rising to number six in the world rankings.

Meanwhile, the victory also comes on the back of a success in the event in 2008 and a second-place finish last year at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

Kaymer said: "My goal for every year is to win two tournaments on the European Tour. I did it in 2008 and 2009 and I hope I can do it this year.

"But my main goal is to play the Ryder Cup this year because when I went there two years ago I really felt I want to be there one day because it is so cool. Even though I wasn't playing, it gave me so much experience and it helped me so much."

European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie may also have been impressed with the display of Cobra golf equipment user Poulter.

Playing with Cobra Pro MB golf irons, Poulter matched Kaymer's performance in the final round to miss out by a single shot.

Furthermore, another Ryder Cup contender, Rory McIlroy, did his prospects of participating at Celtic Manor in October no harm by finishing third.

On the PGA Tour, a day of rain caused havoc at the Bob Hope Classic, meaning that the 90-hole tournament is still to be completed.

Bubba Watson enjoyed a strong fourth round with his golf putter, but was then let down by a double bogey on the final hole after finding the water, with his three-under-par effort of 69 leaving him on 23 under par for the tournament.

Alex Prugh is the other player to share the lead, while Bill Haas and South African Tim Clark sit just one stroke off the pace.

Prugh is optimistic that he can handle the pressure in the final round to gain a first PGA Tour success.

He said: "I think if I just keep my gameplan that I was playing the last four days and keep on plugging along making birdies here and there, and minimising the mistakes, I think I'll have a great chance."

Meanwhile, Clark, who is still awaiting a first PGA Tour win after 35 top-ten finishes, believes that players who are aggressive with their golf irons in the final round and find a hot streak with their golf putter may have the best chance of emerging from the pack to take victory.

News brought to you by Golf Online, your online shop for golf equipment including golf clubs, golf clothing and golf balls

Find your perfect set of irons here