KJ Choi came back from three strokes behind heading into the final round to win the inaugural CJ Invitational in Yeoju, South Korea by two strokes on Sunday.
The Korean-born golfer, sitting in third place after Saturday’s round behind surprise leader Lee Ki-Sang and Korean American Anthony Kim, shot a five-under-par 67 in the final round, according to AFP.
Choi, 41, “wowed the crowd” with three birdies on the homeward nine in front of large galleries at the Haesley Nine Bridges Golf Club in Yeoju, a city located about 65 miles south of Seoul.
It was Choi’s second victory of the season following his triumph in the Players Championship in the United States and his fifth career title on the Asian Tour, where he is an honorary member.
“This week I had so many things going on. I didn’t really think about the win. I was busy looking after the players and taking care of the sponsors,” said Choi.
“Probably the fact that I wasn’t thinking about the tournament helped me feel at ease. The way it turned out, I’m happy to be the inaugural champion and even though I am hosting this event, it gives a special meaning,” said Choi, who totalled 17-under-par 271 and pocketed $118,875.
Meanwhile, fellow countryman Noh Seung-Yul, ranked no. 1 on the Asian Tour, finished in second place. Kim and Saturday’s leader Lee closed in a tie for third place.
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