Karlberg claims Delhi title

Rikard Karlberg birdied the final two holes as a final-round 70 proved enough to win the Hero Honda Indian Open by two strokes at Delhi Golf Club.

The Swede drained a 20-foot putt on the 17th to move two clear of overnight leader Baek Seuk-hyun but threatened to give it all away on the last when he hit his third shot into a sponsor’s tent.

However, Karlberg holed his fourth shot for a birdie to finish 11 under par and dash Baek’s hopes of a last-gasp victory. The Korean also birdied the 18th to finish second on nine under.

“It feels just amazing,” said the 24-year-old Karlberg.

“I feel so comfortable when I’m here. Even when I was struggling today, I felt confident. I am really thankful for the support from the fans and I really like it here.

“I made great up-and-downs all week. The first day, it felt solid and then I struggled a bit. My short game has been unbelievable. I feel comfortable on the greens.

“To sink the chip, it feels amazing. If you gave me it 100 times, I wouldn’t sink it. I was so lucky that the pin was in the way as it came out a bit hot.

Baek signed for a one-over 73 but still secured his Asian Tour card for next season.

“I missed some tee shots which were really bad. It was good that my putting was working. Rikard played really good the last two holes for those birdies,” said the 20-year-old.

“I’m really happy to get my Tour card. I’ll go to Cambodia next week and try to win there. I feel really confident right now.”

Manav Jaini, who held the lead on the back nine before recording three bogeys, and Shiv Kapur tied for third on eight under par following rounds of 70 and 67 respectively.