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Webb Simpson wins U.S. Open

Posted at 9:54 PM, Jun 17, 2012
and last updated 2012-06-17 23:54:40-04

(CNN) — Young golfer Webb Simpson made a furious charge Sunday to win the U.S. Open, grabbing his fist major tournament victory.

Simpson had started the day four shots back of the lead but used a stretch where he carded four birdies in five holes midway through the final round to get to the top of the leaderboard.

Simpson shot a 68 Sunday to end the tournament at 1-over.

Surprisingly, that score was good enough to win as all the golfers struggled on the slick greens of San Francisco’s Olympic Club and no one scored under par.

“It was a cool day. I had peace all day,” said Webb, 26. “I prayed more the last three holes than I did all my life.”

Jim Furyk and Graeme McDowell were tied for the lead coming into play Sunday.

McDowell stumbled early in the final round but Furyk held the lead for most of day.

Furyk, who had held the lead from Friday afternoon, was unable to withstand Simpson’s great play.

But still on the last hole, both McDowell and Furyk were just one shot behind Simpson.

Both had to get birdies to catch Simpson and tie the tournament, setting up a dramatic ending.

Furyk buried his second shot in a bunker dashing his chances.

McDowell played better but still missed a 24-foot birdie putt, to end his hopes.

Tiger Woods continued his fall Sunday. Woods was tied with Furyk and another golfer for the lead going into play Saturday at 1-under.

But his play faded on Saturday and on Sunday he ended the tournament in 21st place.

“I was just a touch off, ” Woods said. “Today, I got off to a horrific start and just never got it going. But there are a lot of positives that can be taken from this week.”

By Lateef Mungin, CNN.
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