World Golf News - 22 November 2011

Melbourne was the scene of a reversal of fortunes as the United States charged to a resounding victory over the International team in the Presidents Cup on Sunday. As if to mirror his country's great performance, former world number one Tiger Woods won the deciding match 4 &3 against Aaron Baddeley of Australia with six impressive birdies sealing his country's victory for the fourth time running.

Woods benefitted from the advice of his teammate Steve Stricker, the renowned putting master, who helped him find his touch during the tournament. For ardent Tiger fans the weekend marked a turning point in the recent career of their hero, whose recent poor performance on the course has not stopped many experts from predicting a comeback for the former champion as the 2012 season approaches.

US team captain Fred Couples beamed as he lifted the trophy on behalf of his players, as International team captain Greg Norman extended his congratulations.

In Malaysia, the Dutch golfer JoostLuiten carded his first-ever win on the European Tour by winning the Iskandar Johor Open on Sunday.As unpredictable weather conditions cut the tournament down to just three rounds, Johor launched an impressive charge during the final round, coming up from the back to erase a four stroke deficit and take the lead. His final round score of 66, five under par, was sufficient to seal victory over Daniel Chopra of Sweden who failed to match the champion's score after eighteen holes.

Clearly thrilled after his first victory at the top level of professional golf, the 25-year-old Luiten told journalists he would not rest on his laurels - he has his sights fixed on the Ryder Cup and on becoming one of the top players in international golf. Now in the top 15 players competing in the Race To Dubai, Luiten may yet make good on his promise in time to come.

Golfweather Editorial