Gary Woodland: US golfer wins Houston Open for first title since brain surgery

Chasing his first PGA Tour win, Hojgaard scored a spectacular 7-under-par 63 on Saturday and an 8-under-par 62 on Friday, leaving Woodland one shot ahead on the night.

But the American showed remarkable composure and control on a masterful front nine that featured four birdies and cruised to a lead he never considered relinquishing.

Hojgaard also had two bogeys and a double-bogey despite two birdies in his first 10 holes to boost Woodland’s chances.

The Dane closed the gap to five shots on the 14th hole – making a birdie while Woodland carded a bogey – then made it four shots with another birdie on the 16th.

But Hojgaard dropped another shot as Woodland matched him with a par at 17 and last.

Woodland received a warm welcome from the crowd, which erupted into enthusiastic applause and chants of “Gary, Gary” as he struck for the victory.

This is Woodland’s fifth PGA Tour victory and will perhaps prepare him to compete in the first major of the season at next month’s Masters.

When asked about his chances at Augusta, he insisted he still had personal and mental issues to work on, but added: “My game is better than ever.”

American Johnny Keefer and Australian Min Woo Lee finished third with 15 points, one stroke behind Hojgaard.

Reflecting on her success, Woodland said she was “so proud” of not “giving up” on her career during a difficult few years.

He added: “I tried to slow down and take things in because a few years ago I didn’t think it was possible.”