HAMPSHIRE'S Justin Rose will place his Olympic gold medal proudly alongside his US Open trophy after helping deliver golf's dream return to the Games following an absence of 112 years.

Rose won a thrilling duel with Henrik Stenson at Reserva de Marapendi, carding a closing 67 to finish two shots clear of the Open champion, with American Matt Kuchar securing bronze after a superb 63.

The outcome was only decided on the 72nd hole when Rose pitched to three feet to set up a decisive birdie and Stenson failed to convert his long-range attempt, the 40-year-old Swede also missing the return putt for par.

That left the stage clear for Rose to tap-in and seal victory before punching the air in delight, the 36-year-old having been one of the biggest supporters of golf's Olympic comeback while more than 20 of his fellow professionals had opted out.

Rose, who was presented with his medal in front of International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach and a sell-out crowd of 12,000, said: "I think it sits alongside the US Open trophy for me, for sure.

"I think people want to keep comparing the two, major championship or Olympic gold - I don't think they should be compared to one another. I said earlier this year that if my resume one day read "multiple major champion and Olympic gold medallist," I would be a very, very happy man.

"I've just got to tag on another major now."

The victory maintained Rose's record of winning at least one event every year since 2010 and also lifted him back into the world's top 10, while runner-up Stenson replaced Rory McIlroy in fourth in the rankings.

"The whole week I've been so focused, I've been so up for it," Rose added. "I've been just so determined to represent Team GB as best as I could, and it was just the most magical week.

"This is a dream come true. I've been thinking about Rio for a long, long time. I made it a big deal in my year and I had the benefit of walking in the opening ceremony and watching other sports, which was all part of the plan."

Stenson struggled with a back injury from the 13th hole onwards but refused to use that as an excuse, adding: "I'm pleased with my performance.

"Of course, when you're in a good position to try and win you always kind of feel a little disappointed afterwards. But at the same time we said that all along in the Olympics you've got some pretty good consolation prizes."