Adam Scott wins Australian Open

Adam Scott won the Australian Open for his first pro victory in his home country, shooting an even-par 72 on Sunday to beat Stuart Appleby by five strokes.

Scott won 14 times worldwide since turning pro in 2000 before breaking through in his native land. He finished at 15-under 273 at New South Wales Golf Club.

Adam Scott of Australia putts during the final round of the 2009 Australian Open at New South Wales Golf Club on December 6, 2009 in Sydney, Australia.

The win followed Scott’s worst season on the PGA Tour, where he made only nine cuts in 19 tournaments and had just one top-10 finish.

“I always thought I’d get my chance,” Scott said. “It’s so bizarre, this game, that off the back of such a bad year I finally played good enough to win down here.

“I’ve worked really hard even though I’ve played terrible all year. But it pays off. You’ve got to stick with it.”

Five-time Australian Open winner Greg Norman presented Scott with the Stonehaven Cup. Norman missed the tournament because of shoulder surgery.

“This is very, very special to me to win here,” Scott said. “This is going to be very sweet and something I will treasure for the rest of my career.”

Appleby closed with a 75.

New Zealand’s Michael Long (70), American Bryce Molder (68) and Australia’s Nick O’Hern (74) tied for third, nine strokes behind Scott.

John Daly closed with a 71 to finish at 2 over. He will play next week in the Australian PGA at Coolum in Queensland state.