Smith prevails at European Open
England's Jordan Smith claimed his maiden European Tour title with a play-off victory over defending champion Alex Levy at the Porsche European Open.
The lead changed hands throughout the afternoon at Green Eagle Golf Course in Hamburg as Levy and overnight leader Smith were engaged in an exciting final-round battle.
After both finishing at 13-under-par a play-off was required.
Smith won at the second extra hole.
However, the Englishman’s triumph only came after the Frenchman had missed a putt to win from inside three feet on the pair's first trip back down the 18th.
Speaking afterwards, the first-time Tour winner explained that he had loved his journey to the top of the European game.
"I've loved it,” he beamed.
“It's been nerve-wracking at times but I've really enjoyed it.
"It's all a bit surreal. Obviously the Challenge Tour last year and the EuroPro the year before that. It's been fun.
"I had a really good start to the year and the first aim was just to secure my Tour card, which I managed to do.
"And then the second goal was to win an event, which I've managed to do."
Despite losing in heart-breaking fashion, Levy refused to focus on the negatives.
"I don’t feel a lot of pressure, my dream was to win this tournament for my birthday present in two days but I didn't do that,” he smiled.
“I'm really pleased with what I did and I’m really happy."
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