You are in > manchester.com  > News > Back injury hits Couples

Golf

Back injury hits Couples

13/07/2006

Fred Couples has been forced to pull out of this week's Scottish Open in Loch Lomond after aggravating a back injury.

The 46-year-old American star was due to make his first appearance in the event but concern rose after he had to withdraw from the pre-tournament pro-am.

He received treatment on the long-standing problem overnight but had to pull out before the start to the main event this morning.

England's Gary Clark, a graduate from the qualifying school, took his place and teed off alongside world number four Retief Goosen and Ryder Cup ace Ian Poulter.

For Couples, this latest setback could prove costly as it casts doubt over his expected appearance in next week's British Open at Hoylake.

The American veteran needs a good showing in the season's third major as he looks to build points to make the US Ryder Cup team for September's match at Dublin's K Club.

He also admits he needs to be playing more regularly if he is to rediscover his form which has been lacking since finishing runner-up to Phil Mickelson at the Masters in Augusta.

"I just hit a wall at Augusta and I just haven't bounced back very well at all," he said last night.

© Adfero Ltd