Mickelson wins by two shots at Augusta

AUGUSTA, Georgia, Apr 10 (Reuters) Phil Mickelson won his third major title and second green jacket with a two-shot victory at the US Masters.

One shot clear after the weather-hit third round was completed earlier in the day, the American left-hander fired a closing three-under-par 69 to finish on seven-under 281 at Augusta National yesterday.

Mickelson broke clear of a congested leaderboard with birdies on seven and eight before clinching his second Masters crown in three years by picking up further shots on 13 and 15.

Winner of last year's US PGA Championship at Baltusrol, Mickelson became the first player to clinch successive majors since Tiger Woods at the 2002 U.S. Open.

South African Tim Clark spectacularly holed out for birdie from a greenside bunker at the last for a 69 to secure second place.

Holder Woods, the world number one, had to settle for a share of third, four birdies in the last six holes giving him a 70 and a four-under total of 284.

Reuters VJ VP0525