Champion McDowell turns on style at World Match Play

European Ryder Cup player Graeme McDowell hits out of a bunker on the third hole during the 40th Ryder Cup singles matches at Gleneagles in Scotland September 28, 2014. REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

ASH England (Reuters) - Graeme McDowell's putter resembled a magic wand as he began his Volvo World Match Play title defense by dispatching Alexander Levy of France 3 & 2 in his opening round-robin group match on Wednesday.

Levy, who triumphed at the rain-shortened Portugal Masters last week, was two-under for his round but could not cope with a turbo-charged performance from McDowell who ignored the sopping wet conditions by rattling in seven birdies in 16 holes.