World number one Sorenstam has enjoyed another fine season

FINAL LEADERBOARD:
-18 A Sorenstam (Swe)
-12 H Alfredsson (Swe)
-10 K Webb (Aus)
Selected others
-4 B Brewerton (Wal), T Johnson (Eng)
-3 G Nocera (Fra)
-1 K Taylor (Eng)

Sweden's Annika Sorenstam clinched victory at the inaugural Dubai Ladies' Masters with a final round of 69.

The world number one shot an 18-under total of 270 to win by six shots from compatriot Helen Alfredsson.

Britain's Laura Davies, who did not play in Dubai, tops the European money list for a record seventh time as rival Gwladys Nocera failed to win the event.

"It's a lovely way to cap off the season," said Davies, who won her first merit title as a rookie in 1985.

The 43-year-old topped the New Star order of merit with prize money of �317,000.

The highlight of her season was victory in the SAS Masters in Norway, while she also finished runner-up at six tournaments.

Davies added: "Winning in Norway was the highlight, and finishing second in the Evian Masters was also very important in winning the New Star title."

Sorenstam, who opened with a course record of 65, was never threatened all week as she claimed her fifth title of a year.

"It's been a great week and it's lovely to be the first winner of this championship," she said. "I was lucky that no-one really put any pressure on me today.

"I've had a great stretch with three wins and three seconds since August. I have four more tournaments this year and hope I can continue to have a strong finish."