World Golfing News

This week saw new winners and competitive play in world golf, as players vied to qualify for next week's British Open. In Loch Lomond, Scotland the Italian Edoardo Molinari claimed his first European Tour victory by winning the Scottish Open. In wet conditions brought about by the rainy weather, Molinari carded a 74 to finish three strokes ahead of Darren Clarke of Northern Island, who had lead on days one and two. Third place went to France's Raphael Jacquelin who, along with Clarke will be contesting the British Open next week. Several players, including Molinari's younger brother Francesco, tied for fourth place.

In the United States, the American Steve Stricker won his second John Deere Classic in a row, winning the tournament in Silvis, Illinois. In fine summer weather, Stricker played consistently, a strategy that paid off when he finished two strokes ahead of Paul Goydos. Fellow American Jeff Maggert finished in third place. This is Stricker's second John Deere Classic win this year, having finished first at National Trust in Los Angeles in February. All was not lost for Goydos however, as his second place finish secured his place at the British Open next week.

In women's golf, the LPGA US Women's Open at Oakmont Country Club was won by the American Paula Creamer. Shooting a two under par 69 on the final hole, which included birdies on the fourteenth and fifteenth, Creamer lifted the trophy, her first major title win and ninth career win on the LPGA. Second place went to South Korea's Na Yeon Choi, tied with Suzann Pettersen of Norway. Creamer is still recovering from thumb surgery and endured a painful four rounds, but determination was the trademark of her performance and after 72 holes, victory was hers.

Next week's British Open has been long-awaited and is expected to showcase both the old and new talent in professional golf. With Tiger Woods recovering from physical injury and a host of young players on the tour, the outcome of next week's major will make for exciting viewing.