Golf: Cristie Kerr clinches her 20th title at Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia

Golfer Cristie Kerr took a one-stroke victory at the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia on Oct 29, 2017. PHOTO: REUTERS/USA TODAY SPORTS

Kuala Lumpur (AFP) - American Cristie Kerr captured a 20th career LPGA title at the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia on Sunday (Oct 29) after a sensational 35-foot birdie putt on the final hole earned her a one-stroke victory over Feng Shanshan, Danielle Kang and Jacqui Concolino.

A slight rain delay at TPC Kuala Lumpur only intensified the action afterwards, with play destined for a four-way play-off until the seasoned Kerr rolled in the massive putt on the 18th hole.

Kerr carded an even-par 71 in her final round for a total score of 269, while Feng (71 for a total score of 270), Concolino (67 for a total score of 270) and Kang (66 for a total score of 270) all finished joint second.

The 40-year-old broke into a huge grin and pointed to the sky immediately after securing the landmark achievement.

Her success ended a strong challenge from defending champion Feng, who came into contention with two birdies in her final three holes.

The two-time Chinese champion was undeterred despite coming up short and vowed to return.

"In the last three holes, I made two birdies, and on the last hole, Cristie held that putt. You know, I was just trying to make that putt but, well, I mean, I didn't make it," she said.

"But I think second is still not a bad finish here, and I'm still keeping my record pretty good here in Malaysia. So it goes 2-1-2-1-2; I'll come back next year and see if I can keep it up."

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