Unheralded American Todd Hamilton wrote himself into golf history when he won the British Open championship in dramatic fashion - beating world number two Ernie Els in a four-hole playoff.

The 38-year-old beat Els by a single shot.

The two players finished regulation play all square after Hamilton had squandered his one shot lead coming to the 72nd hole by closing with a bogey when he drove into the rough.

But he did not make the same mistake twice.

He came to the fourth and final playoff hole again one up. This time a par was enough as Els' 14-foot birdie putt slipped by.

It was a stunning win for Hamilton who had to play the Japanese Tour for 12 years because he could not get his US Tour card.

"It was a blast," said Hamilton. "I truly enjoyed my week. I enjoy this style of golf and I could play on this course everyday."

Els was gracious in defeat.

"He played wonderful. He didn't make any big mistakes," said Els.

"I had a great week and we have a great champion," he added.

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