Heidelberg, Germany ? Colin Montgomerie proved he can stay close to Tiger Woods. Beating him is another matter.

Woods won his third Deutsche Bank-SAP Open title in four years on Monday, making an 8-foot par on the 72nd hole to get into a playoff and beating Montgomerie on the third extra hole with another par.

Montgomerie, struggling with a bad back, drove into a bunker close to the lip. His approach shot came out heavy and went into the lake, leading to a double bogey.

Montgomerie has never won a tournament with Woods in the field, although Woods paid tribute to the Scot’s tenacity.

“He is a great champion, whether he has won a major or not,” Woods said. “Monty was obviously not exactly feeling his best, but he is a true champion and fought the entire round. It was a great battle going head-to-head with him and a lot of fun.”

The two finished tied after 72 holes at 20-under 268. Woods closed with a 68, while Montgomerie had a 69.

Woods won for the 38th time worldwide, and now has won nine times in 23 tournaments outside of the United States. His playoff record improved to 9-2.