Getty ImagesAlmost lost in the crazy finish was the end of Woods’ two-year reign at the British Open. Trying to become the first player in 51 years to win the claret jug three straight times, he was never a factor. He finished with a 70, shots behind in a tie for 12th.
“I wasn’t as sharp as I needed to be,” Woods said.
Romero shot a 67 in the final round and was the only player to shoot par or better all four days. He had a 34 on the back nine, despite two double bogeys that kept him from joining Angel Cabrera as a major champion from Argentina.
Richard Green of Australia matched the British Open record at Carnoustie with a 64 and finished at 279 with Ernie Els (69). Hunter Mahan made the cut on the number and tied for sixth with a 69-65 weekend.
Garcia was distraught the last time he played Carnoustie, making his professional debut in the majors with rounds of 89-83 that left him crying in his mother’s arms. He had so many chances to win this time, especially at the end.
Harrington and Garcia passed each other on the bridge over Barry Burn as Garcia marched up the 17th fairway and Harrington tried to work his way out of a mess. Garcia smiled briefly.
The Open was his, or so he thought.
“I knew he hit it twice in the water,” Garcia said. “I know he made a putt for double. And I knew par was a winner.”
At Carnoustie, that’s not always as simple as it sounds.
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