San Francisco - American Webb Simpson clinched his first major title with a nerve-jangling one-shot victory at the 112th US Open on Sunday after overhauling overnight leaders Jim Furyk and Graeme McDowell.
The 26-year-old Simpson, who triumphed twice on the PGA Tour last year, charged into contention with four birdies in five holes around the turn on the way to a two-under-par 68.
On a foggy afternoon at the brutally difficult Olympic Club, Simpson coolly parred his last eight holes to finish at one-over 281 as the other main contenders faded over the closing stretch.
Northern Irishman McDowell, winner of the U.S. Open at Pebble Beach two years ago, closed with a six-bogey 73 to tie for second with little known American Michael Thompson (67).
Furyk, US Open champion in 2003, was tied for the lead with three holes to play but bogeyed 16 and 18 for a 74 and a five-way share of fourth place at three over.
Three-times champion Tiger Woods, aiming to end a four-year major title drought, never recovered from a stumbling start and tied for 21st at seven over after returning a 73. - Reuters