Stenson gives Ryder nod for Swedish glory

Published on Monday 1 December 2008 09:07

HENRIK STENSON believes playing with Robert Karlsson at the Ryder Cup this year gave Sweden the edge over other countries as they combined to secure the Omega Mission Hills World Cup yesterday.

Sweden overturned a four-stroke deficit in final round foursomes to capture only their second World Cup victory in the tournament's 54-year history, and first since 1991.

Stenson and 2008 European Tour Order of Merit winner Karlsson played superbly together yesterday, shooting nine birdies in a flawless round for a nine-under-par 63. That ensured they finished the tournament in 27-under 261 overall, three strokes ahead of Spain's Miguel Angel Jimenez and Pablo Larrazabal.

"I think playing in the Ryder Cup, it gives you great experience, and we had a great fourball together at Valhalla, and that's the only time we've played together before coming into this week," said Stenson.

"A team event is good fun. I think it sort of brings out the best of both players who can be there to cover up for each other, and then keep fighting hard for your partner. It has all worked out great."

Karlsson, meanwhile, admitted he was delighted to be joining famous players such as Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Seve Ballesteros in lifting the World Cup trophy.

"If you look on the trophy, there's many impressive pairings on there," he said.

"It means very much to win for the country."