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Ochoa fends off Sorenstam to claim LPGA world title

16/10/2006

Lorena Ochoa has claimed the LPGA World Championship title after shooting a final-round 65 for a two-shot win over the legendary Annika Sorenstam.

The 24-year-old Mexican followed up her maiden tour win last week by claiming the ladies' biggest prize and she now looks almost certain to end the reign of 36-year-old Swede Sorenstam, who has led the way in each of the past five seasons.

"It was probably my best round of golf in my professional career," Ochoa said after her win. "I knew it was about time, I knew I could do it."

She added: "We're breaking a barrier today. It's very important to me. It has extra meaning, for sure. I'll go home next week and celebrate it."

Sorenstam, who closed with a 70, was full of praise in defeat, saying: "I really don't know what to say other than just to congratulate Lorena on a great performance and a great week and a great year.

"I'm probably as disappointed as you can be. It just doesn't get any worse than this. I gave it all I had this week. She just played very, very well."

Meanwhile, teenage prodigy Michelle Wie again showed she still has a long way to go before she will challenge for the major titles after she shot a woeful 75 to finish 17th in the 20-player field.

"Obviously, I'm not feeling as wonderful as I did," Wie said. "Like I said before, sometimes we have to take a step back in order to move forward.

"This is the time of year you don't play that great, your best, and all of a sudden you play good. I feel that's coming in me."

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