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Faldo set to miss first Open since 1975

20/05/2008

Nick Faldo has confirmed that he will not be competing in this year's Open in order to concentrate on his role as Europe's Ryder Cup captain.

The decision means that it will be the first time the 50-year-old has missed the event since he failed to qualify as an amateur back in 1975.

However, the three-times former champion has not ruled out competing in the future once his international responsibilities allow.

He stated: "I will play The Open again, but this year I need to concentrate."

Since making his Open debut at Birkdale in 1976, Faldo has claimed the title on three occasions, each time in Scotland in 1987, 1990 and 1992.

The decision comes days after Faldo lent his support to Colin Montgomerie, expressing his view that the Scot will play a crucial role in Europe's Ryder Cup contest against the United States this September.

He argued that Monty will "turn it around" after dropping to 54th position on the Ryder Cup world points list, though it is likely that he will have to play as one of the team's two wildcard selections.