(Reuters) - Rory McIlroy shot a closing 69 to win the Irish Open for the first time after a thrilling final-round duel with Russell Knox at the K Club on the outskirts of Dublin on Sunday.
The world number three from Northern Ireland finished three shots ahead of Scotland's Knox and Welshman Bradley Dredge.
McIlroy struck a superb three-wood into the 16th green to set up an eagle opportunity and although he missed the long putt, he made birdie and Knox's bogey left McIlroy a shot ahead.
The 27-year-old four-times major champion played another majestic shot on to the 18th green and this time he converted the eagle chance to secure the title in style.