Late eagle earns Martin victory

American Mo Martin won the Ricoh Women’s British Open in stunning fashion yesterday, firing an eagle on the 72nd to finish a shot ahead of Norway’s Suzann Pettersen and China’s Shanshan Feng.

Martin’s approach to the 18th ran into the flag and finished six feet from the hole to set up a closing round of 72 in windy conditions at Royal Birkdale.

“The second shot is one I’m going to remember. I actually heard it hit the flag and said ’Oh my God”’ said Martin, who had recorded just one top-10 finish in 63 previous LPGA starts.

Martin had to wait for an hour to see if any of the later starters could match her total of one under par, but Feng and Pettersen both shot 75, although |Pettersen did finish with birdies on the 17th and 18th.

Overnight leader Inbee Park finished fourth after a closing 77 while English teenager Charley Hull was joint 12th after a poor 78.