Monday 10 July 2017 11:48, UK
Jon Rahm has set his sights on major success after claiming a maiden European Tour title at the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.
The Spaniard eased to a six-shot victory at Portstewart Golf Club after firing a tournament-record 24 under over the four days, securing him his second win in just his 25th professional event.
Rahm climbs to a career-high of eighth in the world rankings and now gives him plenty of confidence heading in to The Open later this month at Royal Birkdale, live on Sky Sports.
"It (winning) proves to me I can perform properly on a links golf course and that's what I've got to take to The Open," Rahm said. "I know now that I have what it takes.
"I know I can read the putts right, I know I can interpret the wind and I can hit the shots and I can manage myself around the golf course properly enough to have a chance to win The Open."
Rahm began the final round in a share of the lead but fired two eagles and five birdies during a seven-under 65 on Sunday, including a hole-out eagle from 150 yards at the fourth.
"The trophy is right next to me and my name is going to be there forever now, but it seems hard to believe that it's happened," Rahm added.
"I just look at it and I see Nick Faldo, Jose Maria Olazabal, Colin Montgomerie, Ian Woosnam, Seve (Ballesteros). That's a list of the greatest European Tour players ever and to have my name next to it, and the last one, Rory McIlroy, it's so special.
"To actually play my best golf that I can remember and shoot 24 under on this golf course and win it by six, that is not something I would have believed I was capable of. I learned a lot about myself and it's a really, really special day."
