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Irishman's defence leaves no need for an asterisk to mark the absence of Woods Padraig Harrington kisses the Claret Jug after successfully defending his title at Royal Birkdale. Photograph: Glyn Kirk/AFP Only one result could ensure the winner of the 2008 Open championship will not be required to endure the sight of an asterisk inscribed next to his name by the game's historians, and last night we got it. At Carnoustie 12 months ago Padraig Harrington beat a field including Tiger Woods. That simple fact alone upholds the integrity of yesterday's win, which gave the Irishman his second major championship as well. There were two talking points in the build-up to the 137th championship. The first was the absence of Woods and its effect on the tournament's credibility. Harrington's victory put paid to any such fears. Last year's... [read full story]
