The Open Championship at Carnoustie is over but man did it provide one hell of a show!
Tiger Woods and
Rory McIlroy might have been in contention on Sunday, but it was Italy’s
Francesco Molinari who claimed victory on the historic links course after a flawless bogey-free weekend.
Molinari’ s first major win follows a particularly hot streak for the 35-year-old who has won three of his last six starts, including picking up his first PGA Tour title at last month’s Quicken Loans National as well as a further two runner-up finishes. The Italian’s great form is definitely being noticed especially at home.
“It has been big news in Italy, my recent run of form,” Molinari told reporters last night. Adding, “But to achieve something like this is on another level. Hopefully there were a lot of young kids watching on TV today, like I was watching Costantino in 1995 coming so close to winning at Andrews.”
For Molinari the big payday (over £1.4 million) and the chance to play with Woods over the weekend left the golfer feeling overwhelmed on Sunday.
“To go the weekend bogey-free, it’s unthinkable, to be honest. Playing with Tiger was another challenge because of the crowds and everything. But I felt really good this morning. When I came here, I felt I was ready for the challenge. I’m lost for words.”
Molinari‘ s latest win is also a huge boost for Europe. Before Sunday all four majors were in the hands of American golfers. To bring the Claret Jug back into European hands, especially in a Ryder Cup year was extremely important. One person who will definitely be happy with the Italian’s 2018 performances is European Ryder Cup captain, Thomas Bjorn who was quick to offer he views on Twitter last night.
Here’s a look at the gear Molinari used to claim his maiden major win at Carnoustie.
Driver:
TaylorMade M4
Fairway Woods:
TaylorMade M3;
TaylorMade M4
Irons:
TaylorMade P790;
TaylorMade P750
Wedges:
TaylorMade Milled Grind;
TaylorMade Hi-Toe
Putter: Bettinardi Dass BBZero
Ball:
Titleist Pro V1x
