Shanshan Feng wins Omega Dubai Ladies Masters for the third time!

DUBAI: Under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the landmark 10th edition of the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters came to an end on Saturday, announcing Shanshan Feng, who strolled to a record 12-shot victory, as this year’s tournament winner.

Princess Haya attended the prize giving ceremony to present the winner’s trophy.

"I am really delighted to win in Dubai, which is a lucky play for me," said the 25-year-old prodigy at the presentation ceremony which was also attended by Mohamed Juma Buamaim, Vice-Chairman and CEO of golf in Dubai, Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, and representatives of the sponsors.

A good five shots in front, Feng conjured another piece of magic on the Majlis course, going bogey-free in her final round. Her target was 20 under par, but she surpassed her own goal with a birdie on the iconic 18th hole.

"Coming to this tournament my goal was a top-finish and I delighted to exceed my expectations. Dubai has been really good me, a lucky place, indeed," said Feng who made three birdies in each half.

"It wasn’t easy out there in windy condition, but I kept my composure and got the job in the end."

Thailand’s Thidapa Suwannapura, who shot a final round 73, finished third on nine-under par with England’s Melissa Reid, Pornanong Phatlum of Thailand and Germany’s Caroline Masson sharing third on seven-under par.

Winning the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters was an icing on the cake for Shanshan Feng, who has also become the first player from China to win the Ladies European Tour’s Order of Merit.

Feng teed up in Dubai with an unassailable lead and, after collecting a first prize cheque for euros 75,000, took her season’s earnings to 399,213.41 euros, 150,062.84 euros ahead of second placed Reid.

Feng now boasts 15 career wins, including five on the Ladies European Tour, since turning professional in 2007.

"We are, indeed, privileged to have the official patronage of HRH Princess Haya, who herself is an accomplished sportswoman. Her support has been vital to the growth of this tournament," said Mohamed Juma Buamaim, Vice-chairman and CEO of golf in Dubai.

"In line with Dubai s commitment to encourage women to take to sporting activities for healthy living, we organised "pink day on Friday to raise awareness about breast cancer and support initiatives of Al Jalila Foundation Research Centre. I would to thank all players for their enthusiastic support to the noble cause," he said.

WAM