Green fades as Alex wins LPGA Tour title

Hannah Green
Overnight leader Hannah Green finished tied fifth in the LPGA Tour event in California. -AP

Australia's three-woman challenge has faded as American Marina Alex surged to victory in the LPGA Tour's Palos Verdes Championship in California.

Alex shot a closing five-under 66 to win by a shot from world No.1 Jin Young Ko (66) at 10-under at hilly and windy Palos Verdes Golf Club on Sunday.

American Meghan Khang (68) and world No.3 Lydia Ko (70) of New Zealand tied third one shot further back. 

A one-shot overnight leader after enjoying a three-stroke second-round lead, Australia's Hannah Green slipped to a tie for fifth, three shots behind Alex, after mixing four bogeys with her three birdies in a final round 72.

Countrywoman Minjee Lee started the final day tied third but fell to a tie for 13th after a 71 with three bogeys.

Fellow Australian Sarah Kemp also started the day with some chance to win from four shots back but carded a 73 to be tied 26th.

Alex, 31, won for only the second time, adding to her 2018 Portland Classic title.