Padraig's power-putting seals USPGA

Irishman Padraig Harrington putted superbly over the closing stretch to seal his second consecutive major with a two-shot victory in the USPGA Championship at Oakland Hills Country Club.

One month after successfully defending his British Open crown at Royal Birkdale, Harrington held off the challenge of playing partner Sergio Garcia and American Ben Curtis with a four-under-par 66.

The Irishman edged ahead by sinking an eight-foot birdie putt at the par-three 17th before ramming in a 15-footer to save par at the last for a three-under total of 277.

He became the first European to win the tournament in 78 years, following in the footsteps of Scottish-born Tommy Armour who triumphed at Fresh Meadows in 1930.

Harrington also became the fourth player after Walter Hagen (1924), Nick Price (1994) and Tiger Woods (2000, 2006) to win the British Open and PGA Championships back-to-back.

Irish President Mary McAleese led the praise for Harrington following his victory at Royal Birkdale and said: "Coming so soon after his brilliant win in the British Open, this was a fantastic achievement by Padraig."

She added: "Padraig just goes from strength to strength, the whole country is immensely proud of him."

Taoiseach Brian Cowen also sang the Dubliner's praises and said: "To become the first Irishman to win a major in the US ensures his place in sporting history and legend.

"Yet again Padraig's performance on the back nine of a major epitomised everything about the man - skill, courage, determination and sheer class."

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