Tiger Woods clinched the ninth major title of his career by edging out fellow American Chris DiMarco in a sudden-death play-off for the 69th U.S. Masters today.
Woods, who had led by two strokes with two holes remaining in regulation play, sank a 20-foot birdie putt at the first extra hole to clinch his 43rd PGA Tour victory.
DiMarco had to settle for second place after his approach at the par-four 18th ended up short of the green.
Three strokes clear going into the final round, Woods faced a brave challenge by playing partner DiMarco as the pair completed the 72 regulation holes in 12-under 276, Woods carding a 71 and DiMarco a 68.
Woods had produced a miracle birdie at the par-three 16th, where he holed out from 40 yards off the green with a delicate chip that spun back down the slope, but then bogeyed the last two holes to let DiMarco back in.
U.S. Open champion Retief Goosen, whose 67 was the best score of the round, tied for third at five-under 283 with Britain's Luke Donald, who eagled 13 and 15 on his way to a 69.
Woods, who ended a barren run of 10 majors since his previous triumph at the 2002 U.S. Open, drew level on nine with fellow American Ben Hogan and South Africa's Gary Player in the all-time listings.
He had tears in his eyes tonight as he accepted his green jacket. They were not all tears of joy.
Woods dedicated his play-off victory over fellow American Chris DiMarco to his ill father, Earl.
"He was not healthy enough to come out (to the course) today," said the 29-year-old, now with nine majors to his name and back as world number one. Turning to the TV cameras, a clearly emotional Woods said, "This one's for you pop."
Woods added: "The troubles he has gone through he was not looking good and he is having a hard time right now. But there's a big bear-hug waiting for him and I dedicate this to him."
Woods senior suffered a heart attack a few years ago and has recently been receiving treatment for cancer.
