Johnson bounces back to conquer Canadian Open

Dustin Johnson poses with the winner’s trophy in Toronto, Sunday

Toronto: World No.1 Dustin Johnson rebounded from a shock early exit at the British Open to capture the Canadian Open golf tournament title here Sunday for his third victory of 2018.

Johnson fired a six-under 66 for a three-stroke win after starting the final round of the USPGA Tour event at the Glen Abbey course in a four-way tie for the lead. The win was the 19th title of his career and comes just over a week after he failed to make the cut at Carnoustie.

South Koreans Kim Whee and An Byeong-hun finished second after they each shot 69. They and Kevin Tway were tied for the 54-hole lead with Johnson.

Keegan Bradley had a 64 to finish fourth at 19 under. He shot 63 Friday, but had a 73 in the third round. Johnson has a strong connection to Canada because of his engagement to Paulina Gretzky, daughter of hockey icon Wayne Gretzky and mother of his two sons.

Johnson also becomes the first player since Tiger Woods (2005-09) with at least three wins in three consecutive seasons on the US Tour. He said the most important aspect of his game that needed improvement, after the British Open disappointment, was his putting.

Johnson got off to a strong start Sunday with back-to-back birdies on the first two holes. He added another on the par-four eighth to make the turn at three under for the round. He hit his 103 yard approach on the par-four 11th to nine feet and then sank the putt for another birdie.

 

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