Robert Karlsson extended his record as the most prolific Swedish winner on the European Tour when he beat Britain's Ian Poulter on the second hole of their playoff at the Dubai World Championship.

New European number one Martin Kaymer also landed a cheque for £960,000 after wrapping up his first money-list title.

The German finished 290,000 euros (£245,000) ahead of closest rival Graeme McDowell after tying for 13th in the Dubai World Championship.

Karlsson and Poulter made birdie fours on the first playoff hole and both players again made the green in three at the next attempt.

Poulter, however, incurred a one-stroke penalty when he dropped his ball on to his marker, causing the marker to flip over.

His 40-foot putt was therefore for a five rather than a four but he missed anyway and Karlsson rolled in his birdie effort from three feet to secure the 11th European victory of his career and a first prize of $1.26 million (£808,160).

"Any accidental movement of the ball marker which occurs before or after the specific act of marking, including as a result of dropping the ball ... results in the player incurring a one-stroke penalty," said chief referee Andy McFee.

Earlier, Karlsson had shot a 67 to finish on 274 before overnight leader Poulter (70) joined him on 14-under-par.

"That was unfortunate for Ian in the playoff but I'm afraid you win some and you lose some," said the 41-year-old Swede at the presentation ceremony.

"I didn't really like being up against Ian in the playoff, he's a feisty player with a great record and it (the one-shot penalty) made it a bit easier for me."

Poulter was bidding for his second win in succession after landing the Hong Kong Open title last weekend.

World number one Lee Westwood (68) shared third spot in Dubai on 275 with Spain's Alvaro Quiros (67).

Briton Rory McIlroy produced a swashbuckling finish, two birdies and an eagle in the last five holes giving him a 67 for 276 and fifth position.

Reuters