With only a week to go until the start of the British Open,
Phil Mickelson and
Ernie Els are preparing for Muirfield by playing in the Scottish Open this weekend.
Mickelson thinks the Open, held at Castle Stuart in Inverness, is the perfect prelude to next week’s major.
“Castle Stuart is one of the best golf courses I've played,” said the 43 year-old. “Most of the guys are trying to work out how to peak and play their best golf next week, and for me, it's to play the week before.”
Mickelson’s kind words will be a welcomed boost to Open organisers, who have faced criticism from Tour players, including Open de France winner
Graeme McDowell. This week the Northern Irishman claimed the Open had “lost its prestige” and described the course at Castle Stuart as “one-dimensional.”
McDowell has since apologised for the comments. Personally calling Martin Gilbert, chief executive of title sponsors Aberdeen Asset Management.
“He was fantastic for taking the time to get in touch and I really admire him for that. He said we should catch up at The Open for a chat and I am really impressed with how he has handled this situation,” Gilbert remarked of McDowell.
With the Scottish Open set to change venues in 12 months time, Gilbert is hoping McDowell will change his tune and possibly participate in the event next time around at Royal Aberdeen.
