Read about the thrilling play-off holes

After a dramatic third round that saw both men play some inspired shots, Montgomerie remained one stroke ahead of Woods going into the final day.

And Monday's action saw a thrilling duel between the youthful superstar and the seasoned pro, which culminated in the 18th being played four times.

Monty held his nerve against the world number one, but an error on the third play-off landed him in the water, and second place.

But this impressive display, plus last week's gutsy performance to seal third place at the B&H International, suggest that the wily Scot is back to top form.

Can Monty reign supreme in Europe?

This debate is now closed. A selection of your e-mails appear below.

Monty was not at his best on the day, otherwise he would have won, but it was good to see him back in contention. My advice to Monty is to forget about what other people think of you. You know how great you are so just enjoy - and remember to growl after every shot.
Martin Murphy, UK

Why do the commentators always mention his bad back? Is it so that when he loses there is an excuse? Other people have injuries but you never hear of them and you don't hear them complaining either. If Monty's back is that bad he shouldn't play!
Alan Newton, England

I always thought Monty was vastly overrated and never justified his number two world ranking (when he was there).
Shea, England

I will say he's back to his best when he can play to this standard week after week. If it's not his back it's the spectators fault (or his caddie's). Give us a break and ask us again in two months' time.
Baz, UK

I'm so glad Monty is back to his old self, especially with the Ryder Cup looming. He's an awesomely talented golfer and great ambassador for golf and British sport. I believe too much has been said about him not winning a major or even a US tour event. Instead his priorities lie in being a committed family man which is quite refreshing in modern sport.
Ben Connelly, UK

Bravo Monty! It's good to watch you once again in the lead and I hope you will soon regain Europe's number one ranking. You played so meticulously well.
Anyoti, Uganda

I watched it from Houston, Texas. Though a Scot, the "boy done good." Let's all get behind him for a Major win (but then I'd prefer Faldo to get the glory days back). Are those Tiger's real teeth?
Jason Thomas, Houston, Texas (British citizen)

Tiger has always been my hero, I am glad he won but Monty did unexpectedly well. They both deserved to win.
Irving van Putten, Netherlands

After 75 holes, you have to say Monty and Tiger both played as well as you could ask anyone. Down the last 20 holes neither dominated the other. My feeling about the reason Tiger won the final play-off hole was down to his religious and consistent iron off the 18th tee.

He knew he could get into trouble with it. Monty however, kept taking the three-wood which, being longer, could and off course did get him into that bunker. Then, after seeing Tiger go to the back of the 18th, Monty could have chosen to play safe out of the bunker hoping that Tiger would still take three more.

However, I guess he weighed that up and decided to go for it. So, I think Monty actually lost to Tiger's tactics rather than his golfing superiority. Hard luck Monty, but welcome back.
John Hunter, UK

Well done Monty, with a little bit of luck you could have been the winner. You have proved that you have what it takes to be up there with the best - Tiger of course.
Dr.Ranjit Nair, UK

One of those matches in which it's too bad only one could win - sounds like two greats went at it and both lived up to their reputations! Some fold up like a cardboard suitcase when Tiger comes around, but Colin really hung tough and showed why he's a champion.
Tom, USA

It's good to see Colin back at his best. Let's just hope he can push the rest of the world's top players for the rest of the year.
David Moncrieff, UK