Johnson's late birdies earn Memphis win

MEMPHIS, June 10 (UPI) -- Dustin Johnson's pair of birdies down the stretch Sunday netted him a 4-under 66 and a come-from-behind victory at the St. Jude Classic.

Johnson's birdies at Nos. 16 and 17 gave him a one-shot lead, with four other golfers within a single stroke.

Several of them, however, found the water hazard off the tee on the closing hole, including world No. 2 Rory McIlroy (1-under 69), Chad Campbell (68) and Nick O'Hern (69).

In the end, it was Johnson who emerged on top, finishing at 9-under 271 at the TPC Southwind, earning his sixth career win and first since The Barclays last year.

Johnson now heads to Olympic Club as the favorite for next week's U.S. Open.

Third-round co-leader John Merrick registered a 2-under 68 to grab sole possession of second place at minus-8.

Campbell, O'Hern, Ryan Palmer (66) and U.S. Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III (69) all tied for third at 7-under 273.