Patience pays off for Mikko Ilonen

Mikko Ilonen ended his European Tour trophy drought, winning the Nordea Masters in Stockholm (AFP\Getty)

Mikko Ilonen ended his European Tour trophy drought yesterday, winning the Nordea Masters in Stockholm by three shots to land his first tour title in six years.

The 33-year-old Finn had carded rounds of 70, 63 and 65 heading into the final day at the Bro Hof Slott course and sunk birdies on the second, third, 11th and 13th holes to go round in three-under 69. Swede Jonas Blixt finished runner-up.

"It's pretty special. I could feel a lot of support from Finland, especially today," Ilonen said. "Playing with Alex [Sweden's Alexander Noren] in the last group in front of the local fans – it feels pretty special."