Refocused McDowell ‘more motivated than ever’ for titles

Graeme McDowell outlined a renewed commitment and some ambitious career targets after making an ideal start to the defence of his Volvo World Match Play Championship title.

McDowell, who fought back from three down to beat Jordan Spieth in the opening singles in Europe’s Ryder Cup win at Gleneagles, was again in the first match out yesterday but was never in trouble against Alexander Levy, who won the rain-shortened Portugal Masters on Sunday.

Four birdies in the first six holes helped McDowell to a comfortable lead and, although Levy kept his hopes alive with a birdie to win 13, McDowell matched another birdie from his French opponent on 15 before completing a 3&2 win on the next.