Adam Scott sees positive signs as he prepares to launch his bid for a second Masters green jacket despite consecutive title defences blighted by illness.
After closing with a pair of three-under-par 68s, defending champion Scott tied for 45th, a distant 15 shots behind winner Dustin Johnson at the 77-man World Golf Championship event in Mexico City on Sunday.
The Australian, who slipped a spot to No.8 in the world rankings, was dogged by a lingering head cold, as he was when tied 14th but unable to contend at the Honda Classic in Florida a week earlier
"My health has not been good; I've felt shocking for two weeks," Scott told AAP.
The 36-year-old will dedicate the next three weeks to intense preparation at his Bahamas base before playing the Houston Open prior to the Masters at Augusta.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"I've got a nice little stretch of five weeks to work myself into great shape for the Masters," said Scott, the 2013 champion at Augusta National.
"I feel I know exactly what I need to work on.
"'m seeing great signs on and around the greens.
"With some real focused work, I'll be able to take that to the level where I need it to be to contend and win at Augusta."
Scott's 45th place confirmed Australia's worst finish at a WGC event since the series was created in 1999. It is the first time a golfer from Down Under has failed to finish in the top 40.
Scott was the leading Australian, three shots ahead of compatriot Sam Brazel (75), who slumped to a tie for 55th at four over.
Marcus Fraser also fell with a 75 and he finished in 58th at five over.
Scott Hend settled for 65th place at nine over while Matt Griffin (19 over) was last in the field.
