Luke Donald handed Open lifeline for Troon after Van Zyl pulls out

Former world No. 1 Luke Donald gained a spot in the field for The Open after the withdrawal of South Africa’s Jaco van Zyl.

Van Zyl’s decision means Donald, as first reserve, is now into the main Open draw. I’ve had a jam-packed season this year, including a lot of travelling between continents, and then coming home to the added stress of building a house.

Ahead of the 145th Open, former champion Rory McIlroy has been taking a trip down memory lane to look back at his favourite memories from golf’s oldest major.

Van Zyl only qualified for the South African team after Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel and Branden Grace withdrew from Olympic selection.

There’s been times I’ve played the Scottish Open to get ready for the Open.

The Englishman, 38, had been first reserve for the Open – but following his call-up, that position has passed to Daniel Summerhays, of the USA. “Will throw in some events when she’s feeling well”.