JOHNSON WINS, HARRINGTON THIRD IN PORTUGAL INVITATIONAL
Zach Johnson won the inaugural Portugal Invitational at Els Club Vilamoura. (Photo: PGA Champions)
Pádraig Harrington produced another strong finish to claim third place at the inaugural Portugal Invitational at Els Club Vilamoura in Portugal, where American Zach Johnson secured the win.
Johnson closed with a flawless seven-under-par 65 to finish on 19-under, two shots clear of fellow American Stewart Cink, as he lifted the trophy in the first PGA Tour Champions event staged in continental Europe. Harrington was third on 12-under with rounds of 66, 65, 70.
The Dubliner entered the final round within touching distance of the leaders but was unable to produce enough magic to mount a serious challenge as Johnson moved clear over the closing stretch.
"I felt like my game was in good shape all week," Harrington said. "I gave myself opportunities, but Zach played exceptional golf today. Sometimes you have to recognise when someone goes out and wins it rather than everyone else losing it."
The three-time Major champion added: "I'm pleased with another top finish. It's been a good season, and I'll keep giving myself chances."
Darren Clarke also had a strong week to finish tied 13th on nine-under with rounds of 71, 68, 68. Venue host Ernie Els was a shot further back on eight-under (68, 72, 68).
Johnson, whose victory marked his fourth PGA Tour Champions title of the season, was delighted to make history by becoming the first winner of the new event.
"It's a special week," Johnson said. "This golf course is outstanding and the support we've received has been incredible. To win the inaugural Portugal Invitational is something I'll always remember."
The former Masters and Open champion credited his composed final-round performance for sealing the title.
"I stayed patient, hit a lot of fairways and gave myself plenty of birdie looks. When you play bogey-free on a Sunday, you're usually going to have a good chance."
The tournament proved a successful debut for the Portugal Invitational, attracting one of the strongest fields on the Champions Tour and showcasing the newly renovated Els Club Vilamoura as a fitting venue for Europe's newest senior event.
For Harrington, another podium finish strengthens his position near the top of the Charles Schwab Cup standings and underlines that the Irishman remains one of the most consistent performers on the over-50 circuit.