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Iconic Royal Birkdale images: Padraig Harrington wins again

Padraig Harrington celebrates his victory in The Open at Royal Birkdale in 2008
Image: Padraig Harrington celebrates his victory in The Open at Royal Birkdale in 2008

We end our countdown to The Open by taking a look back at another iconic image from the Royal Birkdale archives as Padraig Harrington retained the title in 2008.

The Irishman started poorly with a four-over 74 in the first round, but bounced back with a 68 to make the cut in extremely difficult conditions in Southport.

A two-over round on day three then brought him closer to contention as he looked to follow up his victory at Carnoustie the previous year.

Padraig Harrington celebrates with the Claret Jug after winning the 2008 Open
Image: Harrington retained the Claret Jug in 2008

Greg Norman, who held the lead going into the final day, closed with a round of 77, while Harrington hit a 69 to finish on three over and secure a four-stroke victory over Ian Poulter and lift the Claret Jug once again.

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