Sweden’s Alexander Björk claimed his maiden European Tour title at the Volvo China Open, after firing a final round 65 at Topwin Golf and Country Club.
It was an exciting final day at the Beijing venue, as a plethora of players moved into contention and threatened to take home China’s national open, but as the drama unfolded the 27-year-old from Jonkoping remained calm and composed throughout to become the first Swedish winner in the 24-year history of the event.
A birdie at the opening hole was the first of seven for Björk, who was in contention at last week’s Trophée Hassan II, and had challenged for numerous European Tour titles since graduating from the Challenge Tour in 2016, and a seven under final round was enough to see him finish one stroke clear of the pack on 18 under.
Spaniard Adrian Otaegui birdied the final hole to sign for a 67 and finish in outright second, while his compatriot Jorge Campillo (67) shared third place with English duo Jordan Smith (64) and Matt Wallace (68) on 16 under par.
“It’s tough to describe the emotions right now, but I am really very happy,” said Björk, who started the week 112thin the world rankings. “I am very proud of the way I played today, it’s probably one of the best rounds that I have ever played.”
He added: After the 12thhole, I knew I was up there on the leaderboard. I saw Jordan Smith finished on 16 under, so I knew I had to make birdies coming down the stretch. That helped me to stay positive and give me the strength to make birdies instead of trying to play safe.
“You never think you are going to win. You hope it will happen, and I guess it was meant to be today.I missed out on the win in Hong Kong earlier this season. I had a bad finish. It was my turn to win today so I am very happy. It’s great to know that I am the first Swede to win this prestigious tournament.”