Emotional Meronklifts Dunhill trophy

LONDON, United Kingdom (AFP) — Poland's Adrian Meronk wept tears of joy after winning the Alfred Dunhill Championship by two strokes as he powered past rival Casey Jarvis in a dramatic final day on Sunday.

Meronk capitalized on Jarvis’ failure to hold onto his two-shot overnight lead as the South African faded with a last round of 72 to finish 18-under par for the tournament.

The 33-year-old Meronk ended at 20-under after carding a 68 in his triumphant final round.

Meronk, who shot a nine-under 63 in his third round at Kingsbarns on Saturday, made a fast start in the penultimate group with three birdies in the opening five holes.

Two more birdies at the 12th and 14th saw him move three clear of Jarvis following costly bogeys by the South African on the ninth and then par-three 11th.

Although Jarvis picked a shot back up at the 15th, another bogey on the 17th left Meronk the clubhouse leader.

Meronk's fifth DP World Tour title, and his first since 2023, was soon confirmed once Jarvis missed his 24-yard eagle attempt at the last.

Meronk is one of the DP World Tour members allowed to play in LIV Golf tournaments under the 2026 Conditional Release Agreement.

"It is unreal, to be honest. I never usually cry, but this one feels really special. I am just lost for words," he said.

"It has been quite a tough year for me and to win here, 10 years after turning pro, it is a dream come true. It is unbelievable. I am extremely happy and very relieved."

The four-day tournament was played over three courses — Carnoustie, Kingsbarns and St Andrews — with the latter hosting the last round on the famous Old Course.

Denmark's Niklas Norgaard finished with a four-under-par round to claim a share of second place alongside Jarvis.