You are in > manchester.com  > News > Clarke pulls out of Irish Open

Golf

Clarke pulls out of Irish Open

15/05/2007

Darren Clarke will be missing from this weekend's Irish Open after a hamstring injury forced his withdrawal from the Adare Manor event.

The popular Northern Irishman strained the muscle while playing football with his children last month and subsequently failed to make the cut at the Spanish Open.

He was then forced to cut short appearances in two American tournaments, the Wachovia Championship and the Players Championship, and has been told that the problem requires long-term rest and rehabilitation.

"It is with great reluctance and an equal amount of sorrow that I have to withdraw from this week's Irish Open. To say I'm disappointed is putting it mildly," Clarke said.

"I so wanted to compete for Ireland's national title, so this is another blow on top of many recent frustrations."

After playing a crucial role in Europe's retention of the Ryder Cup in September, Clarke has slumped to 85th in the world and has not made a cut since February.

The 38-year-old may yet make a return for next week's BMW PGA Championships at Wentworth depending on the state of the injury.

© Adfero Ltd