Justin Rose is world number one despite BMW Championship play-off defeat

Justin Rose’s journey to the summit of golf is finally complete after he claimed top spot in the world rankings.

The Englishman climbed to the top of the rankings above American trio Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and Justin Thomas after securing at least second place at the event in Philadelphia.

But his achievement was then slightly overshadowed following a disappointing additional hole at the Aronimink Golf Club which saw him edged out by winner Keegan Bradley.

"I know there is a bit of good news but it kind of takes a slight bit of the edge off," Rose told Sky Sports Golf.

Speaking about his new ranking, he added: "That's obviously boyhood dream stuff, something I'm incredibly proud of.

"I now have another string to the bow; if you're trying to sum up my career in three sentences - world number one would be right up there with the other achievements.

"I'm very proud of it, it's been a good stretch of golf, I've really played solidly for over a year.

"I always envisaged myself getting to world number one by winning tournaments and the last two weeks I haven't won.

"But delighted to have got to the top, absolutely."

Rose looked on course for the 10th PGA Tour title of his career after American Bradley bogeyed the 18th following a wild tee shot.

The 38-year-old narrowly missed a putt for par though, leaving the pair level on 20-under and forcing the additional hole.

Bradley, who fired a six-under 64 in the final round after beginning the day three shots behind Rose, had been watching anxiously at the side of the course with his family and he then returned to take advantage of his extra opportunity.

Additional reporting by the Press Association.