Webb wins Women's Open for 3rd time

Australia's Karrie Webb became the first three-time winner of the Weetabix British Women's Open, the last Major of the season, with a brilliant closing round of six-under-par 66 today at Turnberry.

On 15-under-par 273, the 27-year-old claimed her sixth Major and the £155,000 first prize by two shots from fellow Australian Michelle Ellis, who shot 68, and Spain's Paula Marti, who had a 69.

The victory means that Webb, who completed a career Grand Slam of the four Majors at last year's McDonald's LPGA Championship, becomes the first to complete a Super Career Grand Slam, the five different Major titles available in her career.

Last year, the British Open replaced the du Maurier Classic as the fourth Major.

Webb, who also won the title at Woburn in 1995 and Sunningdale two years later, had a flawless final day in the wind and rain.

She took the lead with four birdies in the first 10 holes and added more at the 12th and 17th. Having missed the cut as the two-time defending champion at last month's US Open, the victory had extra-special meaning.

"I'm delighted the way I stood up to the pressure at the weekend," said the 27-year-old, who started the final round three off the lead.

"This is definitely one of my greatest moments."

While Webb follows in the footsteps of Greg Norman, who won his first Open Championship at Turnberry in 1986, Ellis completed a great day for Australia with her best-ever finish in just her second professional season.

"It's awesome to shoot 68 and finish second," said the 26-year-old, who birdied the last.

"This is the first time I've put it together under the gun."

For 22-year-old Marti, the reward, in addition to a cheque for £85,000, is almost certain selection for Europe's team to defend the Solheim Cup in Minnesota next month.

"That's something I have been aiming for all year and this just feels so good," she said.

It was a long look back to find the British interest.

Kathryn Marshall, with a 72, and fellow Scot Catriona Matthew, who shot 75, were the best-placed on one-over-par 289, 16 shots behind Webb.

"It is a shame that none of the home players did better," said Matthew.

"But it's been good for Scotland to host the championship for a first time."

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