Share

Simsby clinches Malaysia golf win with dramatic playoff

Trevor Simsby of the United States won a thrilling playoff Sunday against Australia's Andrew Dodt and fellow American Jarin Todd to clinch victory in the weather-shortened Malaysia Open.

All three golfers ended their final round with a total of 13-under-par 203, leading to a sudden-death playoff at the Kota Permai Golf and Country Club.

Todd was out of contention after the first playoff hole, which saw Simsby and Dodt both make birdies.

Simsby then stormed to victory on the second hole by sinking a four-foot birdie putt, spelling defeat for Dodt who had looked dominant at the start of the tournament.

The American said he was "ecstatic" at the biggest win of his career and his first Asian Tour title.

"The turning point came when I was walking off the 15th hole," said Simsby. "My caddie was saying we were still in it, and I really didn't think so. And then I birdied the 16th, and I knew we had a chance."

Dodt said it was "disappointing to finish like that, but all in all a solid week and well done to Simsby".

A competitive field saw a trio of golfers including Thailand's Kosuke Hamamoto, Japan's Rikuya Hoshino and South Korean Charlie Wi finish one shot behind the leaders after 18 holes.

The event was reduced to 54 holes from the usual 72 after stormy weather led to play being abandoned on Saturday.

The $1 million competition has made a return following a four-year absence, even as many sporting events are cancelled worldwide due to the coronavirus outbreak.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE