The United States came from behind to win the inaugural UBS Warburg Cup at Kiawah Island when they dominated the singles matches against the Rest of the World team on the final day of action. The Rest of the World led 7-5, setting themselves a target of five and a half points to win, but instead they surrendered the final session by three points to give the US a one-point victory.
Nick Faldo beat Tom Watson three and two while Ireland's Des Smyth overcame Lauren Roberts four and three but their victories were soon rendered meaningless as the US came storming back. US Ryder Cup captain Curtis Strange halved his match with European captain Sam Torrance before Arnold Palmer overcame his long-time rival Gary Player two and one. There were also victories for Scott Hoch, Mark O'Meara, John Cook, Mark Calcavecchia and Dunis Durnian before Larry Nelson clinched the tournament with a three and two triumph over Frank Nobilo of New Zealand. In the day's other tie, Ian Stanley halved his match with Ray Floyd.
"Obviously we are disappointed to lose but it has been a great event," said Rest of the World captain Gary Player. "When I look at the scoreboard it is very exciting to see the scores so close and it must have been great for everybody involved in the event and the sponsors who have produced a tournament to be proud of."
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
