Bubba Watson dominates Albany, wins Hero World Challenge by 3

Bubba Watson was in, then he was out, then he was back in, then he won the Hero World Challenge.

Watson, a day after tying the course record at host Albany in the Bahamas with a 9-under 63, closed with 66 to cruise to a three-shot win over Patrick Reed. Watson’s total of 25-under 263 was, in part, a reflection of the long-hitting two-time Masters champion’s length. On a course with five par 5s, Watson played the long holes in 12 under for the week.

Coming into the day ahead by two shots, Watson made his only bogey of the day on the 72nd hole of the tournament.

The Florida native was originally committed to this 18-player unofficial event, which benefits the Tiger Woods Foundation. However, facing visa issues for his family, who he wanted to bring to the tournament, Watson bowed out. When Jason Day withdrew after the birth of his second child, Watson got a spot back when all of the documentation issues were worked out for his wife and kids.

Rickie Fowler finished in third at 21 under, with Jordan Spieth another shot behind and alone in fourth place.

The course record Watson set yesterday with Paul Casey stood for only one day. Justin Rose, who has a home at Albany and hovered near the bottom of the leaderboard throughout the week, shot 10-under 62 on Sunday to wind up alone in 13th place.

Ryan Ballengee is a Yahoo Sports contributor. Find him on Facebook and Twitter.

Follow @RyanBallengee

LISTEN TO OUR WEEKLY GOLF PODCAST! This week: Is Tiger Woods the greatest golfer ever?

Devil Ball Golf – Golf – Yahoo Sports