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The Open 2018 - as it happened: Francesco Molinari wins first-ever Major title

All the action from the final round at Carnoustie

Harry Latham-Coyle
Sunday 22 July 2018 19:30 BST
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The Open Championship in numbers

Francesco Molinari became the first Italian player to win a major title after one of the most dramatic final rounds in Open Championship history.

Molinari, who had two wins and two second places in his previous five starts this season, carded a nerveless closing 69 at a windswept Carnoustie to finish eight under par, two shots clear of Justin Rose, Rory McIlroy, Kevin Kisner and Xander Schauffele.

Playing alongside a rejuvenated Tiger Woods, Molinari followed 13 straight pars with a birdie on the 14th and finished a brilliant round in fitting style with another from just three feet on the 18th.

Here's how it played out:


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The 147th Open Championship is into its final round.

Jordan Spieth takes a share of the lead into the final 18 holes as he looks to become the first back-to-back winner for a decade. But he could get the battle with Tiger Woods he has always pictured in his head with the 14-time major winner lurking ominously among the chasing pack after a thrilling day of low scoring at a defenceless Carnoustie.

Spieth torched his way round to a bogey-free 65 to finish nine under par, a total matched by American compatriots Xander Schauffele and Kevin Kisner.

We will have all the latest news and updates from our man on the course, Ed Malyon, plus analysis and colour from around the world.

Ben Burrows22 July 2018 09:49
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About yesterday...

Moving day lived up to its name, benign conditions at Carnoustie leading to low scoring and a truly astonishing level of golf throughout the day.

​Justin Rose began proceedings with a wonderful 64 yesterday morning before Tiger Woods rolled back the years, moving to -5. 

And then came Jordan Spieth. An eagle at the first got him going and the defending champion never looked back. 65 moved him in to a tie for the lead and the 24-year old is surely now the favourite for the tournament.

Harry Latham-Coyle22 July 2018 10:04
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USA! USA!

Spieth's experience at this level and previous pedigree gives him an edge, but The Open is still exactly that. Kevin Kisner and rising star Xander Schauffele are right with him at -9, two shots clear of compatriot Kevin Chappell, and all three of them will back themselves as they strive for their first Major Championship.

Of the twelve men -5 or better, eight are from the USA - ominous signs for the Ryder Cup. The chances of an American winner are high.

Harry Latham-Coyle22 July 2018 10:10
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Fleetwood, Mac...

The two brightest British hopes for today are Tommy Fleetwood and Rory McIlroy. Neither sparkled yesterday but kept themselves in the mix and both have the natural talent to make a final day charge from five-under-par. 

Fleetwood hit a remarkable 63 on the final day of the U.S. Open on a tough Shinnecock Hills course earlier in the year, and holds the Carnoustie course record at the same mark - something similar today might just secure the Claret Jug.

Harry Latham-Coyle22 July 2018 10:17
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More joy for Turin?

The most in-form player in world golf at the moment is Francesco Molinari, and the Italian constructed an excellent 65 to surge into contention yesterday. He's -6, and will play with Tiger Woods today.

With his previous putting woes well behind him and possessing a complete all-round game, Molinari has two wins and four top-fives in his last five starts. It has been a good month for football fans in his hometown of Turin; Molinari could upstage Cristiano Ronaldo's arrival by becoming Italy's first ever Major winner...

Harry Latham-Coyle22 July 2018 10:33
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Wind expected...

Aside from Friday morning's drizzle, the conditions have been excellent throughout The 147th Open. That may change today, however, with wind forecast which could complicate matters as the day continues. 

There are a few flags flapping this morning but nothing to really worry players thus far. It may strengthen later, though.

Harry Latham-Coyle22 July 2018 10:38
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Silver Medal winner on the course.

The pressure is off for young Scot Sam Locke. The 19-year old is assured of the Silver Medal (awarded to the best-finishing amateur each year) as the other three amateurs in the field failed to make the cut.

He teed off at 9.55 and is one-over for the day through four holes.

Harry Latham-Coyle22 July 2018 10:42
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The Claret Jug

The current version of golf's most coveted trophy was first used in 1928, but the awarding of the trophy dates back to 1873. Who will hold it come the end of the day?

Harry Latham-Coyle22 July 2018 10:48
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Sampling the local cuisine

Carnoustie is by no means a large settlement, with the 2011 census recording a population of 11,394 people. But there are three Chinese restaurants, and Tony Finau (-4) popped into one for a Saturday night takeaway.

Harry Latham-Coyle22 July 2018 10:58
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At Carnoustie for us is Ed Malyon. He previewed the final day, commenting on Jordan Spieth fulfilling a childhood dream and why The Open is exactly that:

Harry Latham-Coyle22 July 2018 11:02

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