Graeme McDowell makes Tiger Woods pay
GRAEME McDOWELL had the double pleasure of winning for the first time in two years and taking $1million out of Tiger Woods’ pockets.
McDowell’s triumph at the World Challenge in California, which he also won in 2010, earned him a cheque which Woods funded. Woods, who hosts the 18-man event, filled a $4m (£2.5m)financial shortfall when prospective backers withdrew so all the proceeds from the event could continue to benefit his foundation.
“I know he’s put his own cash into the pot this week and he’s kept this thing alive. Huge respect, huge kudos for what he’s done,” said McDowell.
“I don’t know Tiger particularly well but he’s very sociable at this event. He’s a great host. He came off the course on Friday and walked past me and said, ‘Good playing, bleep’. A joke with a jab, I’m sure.”
Woods finished in fourth place as McDowell overcame Keegan Bradley at Sherwood by three shots to pick up the first prize, although he may have to pay some of it back in a fine after abusing a spectator who had yelled “mashed potato” as he fired in a shot from the 16th fairway on Sunday. “It gets a little annoying after a while,” said McDowell.
I know he’s put his own cash into the pot this week and he’s kept this thing alive. Huge respect, huge kudos for what he’s done
Despite this, the victory was a warming way to end a year dominated by the Northern Irishman’s friend Rory McIlroy. “I’ve been envious of all that he has achieved over the past four or five months,” said McDowell.
“I’m sure every player on the planet is. But it has motivated me and showed me what’s possible.”