Return to number one spot is boost for Masters, says Luke Donald

 
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19 March 2012

Luke Donald is world number one again after winning the Transitions Championship.

The Englishman needed a win in Florida to reclaim top spot from Ryder Cup team-mate Rory McIlroy - and he did just that by holding his nerve to win a four-man play-off.

Robert Garrigus, Jim Furyk and Sang-Moon Bae were the players edged out by Donald after the quartet had finished the fourth round on 13 under par.

A run of five birdies in the first 11 holes of his final round moved Donald into contention, before he consolidated with seven successive pars to make sure of a 16th top-10 finish in his last 22 events.

He hit an excellent approach shot on the first hole of the play-off with a seven iron from the rough - and holed the putt to make sure of the victory.

Robert Garrigus had also given himself a birdie opening - but the American's chance had gone when the putt went past the hole.

Donald's victory made it three European victories in a row in America after McIlroy triumphed at the Honda Classic and Justin Rose did likewise at the Cadillac Championship.

Donald admitted the win was a morale booster ahead of the Masters.

He said: "I feel like I've achieved a lot in my career but this is perfect preparation. I've got two weeks off now and can look forward to Augusta.

"I certainly was a lot more nervous about getting to number one the first time. This time it wasn't my focus - I was focused on winning the tournament and it all worked out."

McIlroy was quick to praise his Ryder Cup team-mate as he said on Twitter: "Well I enjoyed it while it lasted! Congrats @LukeDonald! Impressive performance!"

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