Karlsson beats Poulter in bizarre Dubai climax

Monday, 29 November 2010 00:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Swede picks up 11th victory after playoff
Poulter drops ball on marker and incurs penalty
German Kaymer wraps up money-list crown

DUBAI, (Reuters) - Robert Karlsson extended his record as the most prolific Swedish winner on the European Tour when he beat Britain’s Ian Poulter in bizarre style in their Dubai World Championship playoff on Sunday.

New European number one Martin Kaymer also landed a cheque for $1.5 million after wrapping up his first money-list title.

The German finished well clear of closest rival Graeme McDowell after the pair tied for 13th place in the Dubai event.

Karlsson and Poulter made birdie fours on the first playoff hole and both players again made the green in three at the next attempt.

Poulter, however, incurred a one-stroke penalty when he dropped his ball on to his marker, causing the marker to flip over.

His 40-foot putt was therefore for a five rather than a four but he missed anyway and Karlsson rolled in his birdie effort from three feet to secure the 11th European victory of his career and a first prize of $1.26 million.

“Any accidental movement of the ball marker which occurs before or after the specific act of marking, including as a result of dropping the ball ... results in the player incurring a one-stroke penalty,” said chief referee Andy McFee.

Earlier, Karlsson had shot a 67 to finish on 274 before overnight leader Poulter (70) joined him on 14-under-par.

“That was unfortunate for Ian in the playoff but I’m afraid you win some and you lose some,” said the 41-year-old Swede at the presentation ceremony.

“I didn’t really like being up against Ian in the playoff, he’s a feisty player with a great record and it (the one-shot penalty) made it a bit easier for me.”

Poulter was bidding for his second win in succession after landing the Hong Kong Open title last weekend.

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