Westwood will have ‘edge’ at basic Masters

LEE Westwood believes the stripped-back nature of this year’s Betfred British Masters gives him a better chance of emerging triumphant at Close House next week.

The former world number one will become the first player to host the event on two occasions as the European Tour makes its full comeback after the coronavirus pandemic.

The tournament, which will take place at the Heddon-on-the-Wall club just outside Newcastle, marks the tour’s new six-event UK Swing.

Westwood was host the last time the British Masters came to the North East three years ago and he will be joined in the field by the last three winners – defending champion Marcus Kinhult, England’s Eddie Pepperell and 2017 winner Paul Dunne – as he aims to clinch the title for the second time, following his 2007 victory at The Belfry.

“I’m delighted to be hosting again,” said 10-time Ryder Cup player Westwood. “I did it in 2017, three years ago here at Close House, and I really enjoyed it.

“I learnt a lot about what goes in to running a golf tournament, so it was interesting to see things from a different perspective.

“It’s a tough job and a tiring one at that. It was tough to do it that week and play golf too, I sort of ran out of steam towards the end, but it is going to be different this year.

“No crowds, a little less media and things like that, which will allow me to focus more time on trying to win the golf tournament this time round.”

He added: “Since golf courses have opened up again and we are able to get back out on the golf course, I have played most days, probably three or four times a week.

“I have played a lot of golf of late and certainly no one will have played the golf course as much as I have.”