BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Steve Stricker completed at a wire-to-wire victory Sunday in the Regions Tradition, closing with a 4-under 68 for a six-stroke victory and his fourth PGA Tour Champions major title.

Stricker’s second Tradition win at Greystone Golf & Country Club came in his third event since returning from a six-month absence for health reasons. Two straight birdies punctuated the dominant performance.

“It’s been a long time,” the emotional Stricker said. “I hate crying, but where I was last November and even a couple of months ago … it means a lot.”

He had his 20th consecutive round under par on the Founder’s Course, finishing at 21-under 267 for his eighth victory on the 50-and-over tour.

Paidrag Harrington finished second, birdieing the final two holes for a 68. Steven Alker was in the group at 14-under after a 72. He has finished four straight tournaments in the top three, winning twice.

World Golf Hall of Famer Ernie Els, who had his third 68 in four days, also was at 14-under with Rod Pampling (67), Stuart Appleby (69) and 2018 winner Miguel Angel Jimenez (70).