Inspired Hatton says success ‘can help my mother’s cancer recovery’

Tyrrell Hatton is playing for his mother. The Englishman is in contention here at the halfway point of the Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Open, and determined to boost the spirits of Karen.

Hatton shot a brilliant 64 to stand on 11 under par, two behind countryman Robert Rock, and then revealed his extra motivation.

“My mum lives up in Aviemore and was going to come here to watch me, just as she did at the Dunhill last year [the tournament in St Andrews where he won],” he said. “But they found a tumour in her lung five weeks ago and she’s recovering from the operation. Luckily, they caught it pretty early and the surgery went well.

“Hopefully, watching me doing well will help her recovery. It would be a great tonic for her.”

In 2016 here, Hatton was denied by Sweden’s Alex Noren, but used the best performance of his career at that point to leap into the world’s elite.

Hatton, 26, finished in the top 10 in the next two majors and continued his climb thereafter, winning three times on tour.

He stands at world No23, having been as high as 13, and knows the next step – next week’s Open at Carnoustie – beckons.

However, Hatton has his work cut out here first. Rock, the 41-year-old from Staffordshire, is in inspired form and if anyone believes he lacks the gumption to collect the £900,000 first prize, then they should remember Abu Dhabi in 2012, when he beat none other than Tiger Woods.

Sweden’s Jens Danthorp is alongside Hatton, while England’s Eddie Pepperell and American Rickie Fowler are one further back.

Pepperell is not only eyeing this coveted trophy, but also a place in Angus. The top three players not already qualified earn an Open spot.

“I’m supposed to be commentating for BBC Five Live for a couple of days at Carnoustie,” he said after his 63, which was two shots off Hideto Tanihara’s course record.

“Obviously I’d rather be playing than have a microphone in my hand.”