Woods back on top

Tiger Woods is back at the top of the world rankings for the first time in nearly two-and-a-half years after completing an ultimately comfortable two-stroke victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

Defending champion Woods, who will leap above Rory McIlroy at the summit for the first time since the end of October 2010, celebrated his third PGA Tour title of the season after shooting 70 in the final round which was held over after a freak storm hit the Bay Hill course on Sunday.

The American's challenge was boosted by birdies at all par-five holes as he finished on 13 under par overall and two shots clear of England's Justin Rose.

It was playing partner Rickie Fowler who came closest to setting up a thrilling climax with three birdies in six holes, but a disastrous triple-bogey eight at the 16th ended his charge and he was one of four players who finished in a tie for third on eight under overall.

Woods has had to recover from being outside the top 50 in the world at one point and acknowledged he has had to work hard to regain his status.

"It was a by-product of hard work, patience and getting back to playing golf tournaments," he said on Sky Sports 1.

"I've won some golf tournaments in the last couple of years and consequently I've moved up."

When he was asked if he would have to add to his haul of 14 Majors in order to convince the doubters, Woods was typically forthright.

"It's up to them. It's their opinion, I'm very pleased with the way I'm playing," he added.