UpdateStenson's Deutsche Bank victory completes career comeback
Big win at Deutsche Bank Championship marks Swede's return from slump in form, following on from runner-up spot at British Open
Henrik Stenson didn't need a big trophy to prove to himself he belonged among the elite in golf.
After enduring the second slump of his career - the latest a product of bad play more than a lost swing - he began to turn the corner late last year by winning the South African Open. He was back in all the majors again for the first time since 2010. And he was playing better than anyone in the summer.
A runner-up to Phil Mickelson in the British Open and to Tiger Woods in a World Golf Championship. A tie for third in the PGA Championship.
The 37-year-old Swede broke through on Labour Day with his best performance of the year to win the Deutsche Bank Championship.
"It's been long, hard work getting back to this place," Stenson said. "Playing as well as I've done in these last couple of months, there's no magic, no quick fix. It's just hard work. It's been a good four months, and I hope I can keep it going."
He started the final round two shots behind Sergio Garcia, surged ahead with three straight birdies, came out even sharper after a two-hour rain delay, and put away Steve Stricker by holing a bunker shot on the 17th hole.
Stenson closed with a five-under 66 for a two-shot victory over Stricker. He didn't refer to it so much as validation as "icing on the cake".