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THE build up to last week in Shanghai focused on four men and the battle for top spot in the world rankings, a battle that is adding extra spice to the end of the golfing season on the European and PGA Tours, writes Chris Kelby
However, by Sunday it was only about two players, including the current world number one.
Phil Mickelson and Martin Kaymer never really got going; Tiger flattered to deceive until a final round charge saw him climb to a tie for sixth. So, with the battle of the top four won it was left to Lee Westwood to see if he could end his first week as the world's top player with a win.
Francesco Molinari, however, had other ideas. The gritty Ryder Cup man managed to hold off the determined challenge of Westwood to win the HSBC Champions event by just one stroke.
The Italian, who turns 28 on Monday, clinched his second European Tour title with a wire-to-wire victory in Shanghai after carding a final round of 67 at Sheshan International GC to finish 19-under-par. Westwood also shot a 67 to consolidate his position at the top of the world rankings, ending on 18-under-par, while Luke Donald and Richie Ramsay shared third, a distant 10 shots back of the winner on nine-under.
Molinari emerged as a worthy winner, proving the equal of playing partner Westwood throughout the final round with neither player dropping a shot in a high-quality climax to a tournament they dominated. Westwood, though, will be greatly encouraged by the quality of his game following a lay-off due to calf and ankle injuries. It means Westwood still has to win on the European circuit this season, but the 37-year-old insisted he was delighted with his performance.
The charge towards the season ending Dubai World Championship has only two more tournaments to run before the cream of European Golf arrive at the Earth Course on November 25.
