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[This is the print version of story http://www.abc.net.au/sport/content/200607/s1694415.htm]

Last Update: Monday, July 24, 2006. 5:00am AEST

Tearful Tiger retains British Open

Tiger Woods produced a final round 5-under-par 67 to win the British Open at Holylake in England overnight, becoming the first man to retain the title in 23 years.

The world's number one golfer finished on 18-under for the tournament, two shots clear of fellow American Chris DiMarco who carded a final round 68.

South Africa's Ernie Els finished five shots behind Woods in third place.

The best of the Australians was Adam Scott who finished in a tie for eighth at 9-under.

A tearful Woods spoke emotionally about his love for his late father Earl after winning.

The world number one sobbed on the shoulder of his caddie Steve Williams after clinching victory then, as he walked off the green, he hugged his wife Elin and cried uncontrollably in her arms.

"Stevie said out on the fairway 'this one's for dad' and once I'd finished, all these emotions came pouring out of me," Woods said after claiming his 11th career major.

"I miss my dad so much. I wish he could have been here as he thoroughly enjoyed watching me grinding out major championships.

"Where do I begin?," Woods told the presentation ceremony after being handed the famous Claret Jug for the third time in his career.

"This has been a fantastic week for all us players to play a golf course like this.

"I know we haven't been here for quite some time (39 years) but to come here and to have the course in such fantastic condition, I think all the players would like to thank all the staff for presenting one of the greatest championships ever staged."

Woods kept his emotions in check all week and said his Dad, who died on May 3, had helped in a special way.

"He was out there today keeping me calm. I had a very calm feeling all week, especially today," he said.

"Walking down the last hole I had a chance to enjoy this moment. After my last putt I realised my dad's never going to see this again. I wish he could have seen this one last time."

Woods said his display on Sunday was probably his best of the championship.

"Today was one of my best ball-striking days of the entire week, as well as my feel on the greens," he said.

He thanked his entire support network, including his mum, his wife and his coach Hank Haney, for helping him throughout the third major of the year.

"Everyone goes through something like this (a family bereavement) at some point but without these people there is no way I could have accomplished what I was able to accomplish today and without them I would not have been here this week," he said.

Woods also had kind words for his US Ryder Cup team-mate and runner-up DiMarco, whose mother Norma died suddenly earlier this month.

"Chris has played a magnificent round of golf today," he said.

"I know everyone sends their best to his entire family for what they are going through right now."

- ABC/Reuters

© 2006 Australian Broadcasting Corporation

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