Madappa finishes fourth in Taiwan

Young Indian golfer Viraj Madappa made a strong return to form after three missed cuts as he finished fourth in the Yeangder Tournament Players Championship here on Sunday.

Yet the 20-year-old was disappointed at not being able to get off to a good start to challenge American John Catlin, who carded a flawless seven-under-par 65 to win the title.

Catlin became only the fifth person to win three titles in a single season on the Asian Tour.

Among other Indians, young Karandeep Kochhar (68) finished tied 14th alongside Rashid Khan (68). Shiv Kapur (72) was tied 30th, Khalin Joshi was tied 41st, while Himmat Rai (69) and S Chikkarangappa (72) were tied 52nd and SSP Chawrasia (72) was tied 57th.

Madappa had six birdies against two bogeys.

Madappa missed three cuts after his maiden breakthrough at home in August, shot four-under 68 and ended at 11-under 277.

"I was a little disappointed I didn't get off to a good start today but I gave myself lots of opportunities in the middle of the round. But I'm still happy with the way I'm playing," Madappa said.

"It was tough mentally but I'm glad I stuck to my game plan and managed to stay focused. I feel like my game is there physically but I need to work on my mental strength which was lacking in the last few weeks. If my mental strength is strong, I can work my way up the leaderboard."