Shubhankar Sharma produces career best core at Major

On the final day, Sharma took his total to to three-over 287, making his 23rd birthday memorable. In the process, he hit six birdies, three of which were on the last six holes, which also included a dangerous 16th, also called ‘Calamity’. He carded 70, 72, 77, and 68 in the four rounds.

“I am not used to doing much on my birthdays but the last two birthdays have been at The Open and they have been very special. I was in a restaurant last year and everyone there just stood up and sang happy birthday for me. And today, I couldn’t have asked for a better finish,” said the Indian, reported PTI.

“It was quite special as the crowd, which was great through the week, sang that (birthday song) and I must admit it felt good. Hope I gave them something back with that birdie on 18th. It was easily the best round of the week, and but for those six holes at the start of the back nine on Saturday, I think I played very well,” said Sharma.

When asked what his mindset was after the 77 on Saturday, “I was just trying to erase the memories from yesterday. There was nothing wrong with the game. It was just my mind, which had gone off yesterday in the back nine and I just couldn’t see a starting line off the tee. You can’t afford to do that especially on this back nine. It’s not easy. It’s very penal. I knew there was nothing wrong. It was just a mental thing.”

 “There was no expectation to be honest. I was happy going out early because the weather seems to be getting pretty bad now. I just wanted to post a decent score, and I think I did that.”

Apart from him, Ireland’s Shane Lowry saw off the volatile weather to lift the Claret Jug with a brilliant six-shot win, as the title returned to the Island after 68 years. The second position was taken by Tommy Fleetwood, who hit 74 in the final round for a total of nine-under 275, while Tony Finau finished third carding 71 to be seven-under 277 and third for his best finish in a Major.