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Howell wins RSM Classic in playoff for 1st title since 2007

Streeter Lecka / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Charles Howell III is back in the winner's circle for the first time in over a decade.

The 39-year-old veteran defeated Patrick Rodgers on the second playoff hole to win the RSM Classic on Sunday for his first PGA Tour win since 2007.

Howell went wire-to-wire for the victory in his 333rd Tour start between titles, snapping a winless drought of over 4,000 days.

"I just haven't been able to pull it off for so long," an emotional Howell said after his round, according to Kevin Casey of Golfweek. "To hang in there, to turn it around, the way guys were playing around me ... I needed some good fortune on my side and fortunately had it."

He began the round with a one-shot lead, which disappeared quickly after going three-over in his first two holes. Howell slowly battled back and carded six birdies on his final 14 holes to force a playoff at 19-under.

After having the opportunity to win the tournament on his final hole and first playoff hole, the Augusta, Ga. native finally drained a birdie putt to seal the deal.

"I'd messed up the first two (putts to win)," Howell added discussing his thoughts standing over his final putt. "I just thought, 'Just don't leave this one short. Whatever you do, knock it off the green, but don't leave it short.'"

The RSM Classic is Howell's third career win and puts him over $36 million in career earnings.

Despite coming up short in the playoff, Rodgers posted a historic weekend at Sea Island Resort. He shot 61-62 to force the playoff, the lowest closing 36-hole total in PGA Tour history, according to Justin Ray of Golf Channel.

Notables Webb Simpson (-18) and Cameron Champ (-16) narrowly missed out on the playoff.

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