LAWRIE IS RULED OUT OF THE OPEN

PAUL LAWRIE’S dream of a fairy tale return to Carnoustie next month, where he was crowned Open champion in 1999, has been shattered by injury. The Aberdonian’s unbroken 20-year run of appearances at the world’s oldest major championship has been halted by a combination of back and foot problems. Indeed, such is the seriousness of Lawrie’s situation that he has been forced to take a complete break from competitive golf for the remainder of the season. The 49-year-old is doing so in the hope that a combination of rest and expert medical treatment will allow him to extend his career by several more years on the Senior Tour. Lawrie said: ‘Unfortunately, both the back and foot injuries I have been carrying for the last six months and more have become debilitating to the point where I am not currently able to compete at the highest level. ‘Rest and further investigation will be required and it is particularly disappointing that I’m going to have to miss both the upcoming Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Open and The Open Championship, as a result. ‘But my hope is that the break will allow me to get the required treatment and to come back next season, when I’ll be eligible for the Seniors circuit, as strong as ever. ‘As well as working on my rehabilitation, the time away from the course will allow me to spend additional time working with the juniors in my Foundation programme, which is dear to my heart.’ The Aberdonian lifted the Claret Jug in 1999, triumphing in a three-man play-off with Jean van de Velde and Justin Leonard. Lawrie started the fourth round ten shots off the lead and remains the last Scot to win a major championship.