NASSAU, Bahamas, Dec 7 — American Bubba Watson cruised to a three-shot victory at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas yesterday.

The dual Masters champion was in control throughout the final round, shooting 66 to finish at 25-under-par 263, three shots clear of fellow American Patrick Reed (66).

Starting with a two-shot buffer, Watson claimed control with four birdies in his opening seven holes at Albany Golf Club in New Providence before adding three more early on the back nine.

A final-hole bogey was his only blemish as he claimed the US$3.5 million (RM14.6 million) tournament hosted by Tiger Woods, which comprised an exclusive 18-man field, and offered world ranking points, though it is not an official PGA Tour event.

Rickie Fowler (64) finished third at 21 under, with world number one and defending champion Jordan Spieth (67) left to settle for fourth place, five shots back. — Reuters