NORTHERN IRELAND’S STEPHANIE MEADOW completed a superb professional golf debut by finishing third at the US Woman’s Open at Pinehurst.

The 22-year-old from Jordanstown carded a great round of 69 to finish on +1 after four rounds. Her pursuit of round three leader Michelle Wie faltered on the front nine with seven pars and two bogeys. An eagle on 10, however, sparked a fightback and she birdied 18 to claim third for herself.

The event was won by American golf star Michelle Wie. She was the only competitor to finished under par, on -2, after signing off for a final round of 70. Compatriot Stacy Lewis shot a fantastic 66 to clinch second on even par.

Meadow, who has connections to Royal Portrush and University of Alabama, was the leading European, with Scotland’s Catriona Matthew tied for 10th.

Meadow hits to the third hole during the final round of the U.S. Women's Open. John Bazemore John Bazemore

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