The last man standing at the end of a classic survival test on Sunday at Pebble Beach was Northern Irish pro golfer Graeme McDowell. The 30-year-old was the first European to win the U.S. Open in 40 years, with a four round total of 284.
The newest U.S. Open victor said, “To win at Pebble Beach where the names of champions are Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Tom Kite, Tiger Woods … and me.” I’m not sure I belong on that list, but hey, I’m there now. I really tried to go out there and par the place to death today.” McDowell made only two birdies in his final 34 holes, none of them after the fifth hole Sunday.
Finishing second with 285 was Gregory Havret, in third place with 286 was Ernie Els, and tied in fourth spot at 287 were Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods.
McDowell began the final round three shots behind leader Dustin Johnson. He shot a three-over-par 74 but still captured the title. It was, in fact, the highest closing round in 25 years.
The European tour pro attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham from 1998 to 2002, earning the prestigious Haskins Award in his final year of collegiate golf and turned pro the same year.
More photos and video recap below:
Photos: PicApp