Garcia claims title at rain-plagued HSBC

Nov 10, 2008 - 5:46 AM By Andrew Mullen PA SportsTicker Contributing Writer

SHANGHAI, China (Ticker) -- New world No. 2 Sergio Garcia edged out Ryder Cup teammate Oliver Wilson in a playoff to win a thrilling rain-affected HSBC Champions on Monday.

Spaniard Garcia carded a final round 4-under-par 68 to join overnight leader Wilson at the top of the leaderboard after the Englishman shot a fourth round of 70 on the fifth day at Sheshan International Golf Club.

In the playoff, Garcia birdied the second extra hole to claim his second win in three weeks after triumphing at the Castello Masters on his home course at the end of October.

With the win, Garcia claimed a career-high in the world rankings, while the $833,300 first prize sends the 28-year-old top of the inaugural Race to Dubai.

Ryder Cup rookie Wilson, who earned his trip to Valhalla even through he has yet to win a title, earned his fifth runner-up finish of 2008.

"It feels great," Garcia said after claiming his eighth European Tour victory.

"I am so proud, to win and become world No. 2, it's been a great week."

SAS Masters winner Peter Hanson shot a six-under-par 66 to share third place alongside former U.S. Open champion Geoff Ogilvy, who birdied the final hole for a second consecutive 70, at 13-under.

Sweden's Henrik Stenson (71) finished fifth at 11-under, with South Africa's Charl Schwartzel (70) and Australian Adam Scott (70) a further shot off the pace.