After Ryder Cup snub, Meronk wins Andalucia Masters

SAN ROQUE, Spain — Adrian Meronk proved his worth after not making the Ryder Cup, winning the Andalucia Masters and securing his third DP World Tour victory of the season. His triumph silenced the doubters who questioned his abilities.

Despite a rocky start with two bogeys in his first three holes, Meronk bounced back with a remarkable final-round performance, shooting a 6-under 66. With a total score of 16 under, he clinched a one-stroke victory over Matti Schmid (71) at the Real Club de Golf Sotogrande in southern Spain.

Meronk’s resilience shone through as he made two eagles on the front nine, one of which was a hole-out from 121 yards on the par-4 ninth hole. On the back nine, he added four birdies, including one on the par-3 17th, to secure the lead for good.

This win was not only a triumph on the golf course but also a statement following the disappointment of not being chosen for the European team that defeated the United States in Rome. Meronk expressed his relief that the Ryder Cup saga was over and stated his determination to prove his doubters wrong.

At 30 years old, Meronk became the first player to clinch three victories this season on the DP World Tour. Furthermore, this fourth DP World Tour win will propel him to third place in the Race to Dubai standings.

Meronk described the tournament as tough, particularly due to challenging weather conditions. Despite not delivering his best golf on the first day, he expressed his joy and satisfaction at winning the tournament, highlighting his positive mindset and belief in his abilities even during a slow start.

Richard Mansell of England finished two shots behind the leader, with a 4-under 68. Joint third-round leader Schmid, also seeking his first win on the DP World Tour, faltered with a bogey on the 16th hole and missed a 40-foot birdie putt on the 18th to force a playoff with Meronk.

American golfer Chase Hanna shot an impressive bogey-free 66, finishing at 13 under and securing his DP World Tour card for the upcoming season. Reflecting on his round, Hanna expressed his relief and credited the significance of his performance under such circumstances.

Wyndham Clark, the U.S. Open champion, closed with a 2-over 74, finishing at 1 under for the tournament in a tie for 56th place. Matt Kuchar (67) finished tied for 19th at 8 under, ahead of Robert MacIntyre (72).

The Andalucia Masters marked the final tournament of the year in continental Europe. The DP World Tour will now move on to South Africa, followed by the season-ending tournament in Dubai.