Adam Scott wins Australian Open

December 6, 2009

Adam Scott won the Australian Open for his first pro victory in his home country, shooting an even-par 72 on Sunday to beat Stuart Appleby by five strokes.

Scott won 14 times worldwide since turning pro in 2000 before breaking through in his native land. He finished at 15-under 273 at New South Wales Golf Club.

The win followed Scotts worst season on the PGA Tour, where he made only nine cuts in 19 tournaments and had just one top-10 finish.

I always thought Id get my chance, Scott said. Its so bizarre, this game, that off the back of such a bad year I finally played good enough to win down here.

Ive worked really hard even though Ive played terrible all year. But it pays off. Youve got to stick with it.

Five-time Australian Open winner Greg Norman presented Scott with the Stonehaven Cup. Norman missed the tournament because of shoulder surgery.

This is very, very special to me to win here, Scott said. This is going to be very sweet and something I will treasure for the rest of my career.

Appleby closed with a 75.

New Zealands Michael Long (70), American Bryce Molder (68) and Australias Nick OHern (74) tied for third, nine strokes behind Scott.

John Daly closed with a 71 to finish at 2 over. He will play next week in the Australian PGA at Coolum in Queensland state.