DUBAI // Robert Karlsson extended his record as the most prolific Swedish winner on the European Tour when he beat England's Ian Poulter on the second hole of their play-off at the Dubai World Championship.
Th new European No 1 Martin Kaymer also landed a cheque for US$1.5 million (Dh5.5m) after wrapping up his first money-list title.
The German finished €290,000 (Dh1.4m) ahead of his closest rival Graeme McDowell after tying for 13th in the Dubai World Championship.
Karlsson and Poulter made birdie fours on the first play-off hole and both players again made the green in three at the next attempt.
Poulter, however, incurred a one-stroke penalty when he dropped his ball on to his marker, causing the marker to flip over.
His 40-foot putt was therefore for a five rather than a four but he missed anyway and Karlsson rolled in his birdie effort from three feet to secure the 11th European victory of his career and a first prize of $1.26 million.
"Any accidental movement of the ball marker which occurs before or after the specific act of marking, including as a result of dropping the ball ... results in the player incurring a one-stroke penalty," said chief referee Andy McFee.
Earlier, Karlsson had shot a 67 to finish on 274 before overnight leader Poulter (70) joined him on 14-under-par.
"That was unfortunate for Ian in the playoff but I'm afraid you win some and you lose some," said the 41-year-old Swede at the presentation ceremony.
"I didn't really like being up against Ian in the play-off, he's a feisty player with a great record and it (the one-shot penalty) made it a bit easier for me."
Poulter was bidding for his second win in succession after landing the Hong Kong Open title last weekend.
World No 1 Lee Westwood (68) shared third spot in Dubai on 275 with Spain's Alvaro Quiros (67).
Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland produced a swashbuckling finish, two birdies and an eagle in the last five holes giving him a 67 for 276 and fifth position.
