Knox claims maiden win

Russell Knox shot a four-under-par 68 to record a two-shot victory in the WGC-HSBC Champions event in Shanghai.

The Scottish star, whose only previous success came in the 2011 Chiquita Classic on the Nationwide circuit, carded six birdies and two bogeys on Sunday to end on -20 and clinch a maiden PGA and European Tour title.

Knox finished two strokes ahead of Kevin Kisner after the American, who had been leading from the end of the second day, could only manage a round of 70.

Englishman Danny Willett climbed 22 places to take a share for third, alongside compatriot Ross Fisher, after signing for a sensational 10-under 62.

Branden Grace, who led after the opening 18 holes, finished joint-fifth with American Dustin Johnson on -16 after the South African shot a four-under 68.

Knox, who will be hoping to make the 2016 Ryder Cup team for Hazeltine, revealed his delight at securing the win and admitting he can’t wait to return to the venue in the future.

“China is now my favourite place in the world,” he said. “I can’t wait to come back here. For me, this now my favourite golf course and I’m over the moon.”

World number three Rory McIlroy, who was struggling with food poisoning before the tournament, went six-under on the last round to end up in a six-way tie for 11th.

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