Graeme McDowell will return to the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship this October eager to finally claim his first victory in this event and will use his near-miss in 2004 as motivation.
The 2010 US Open winner was beaten in a play-off at St Andrews 13 years ago by Stephen Gallacher, McDowell's best finish in the tournament to date. In the last two editions McDowell has finished in the top 20 and been partnered in the renowned Pro-Am tournament by retired jockey AP McCoy.
McDowell will be looking for his first win on the European Tour since the 2014 Open de France and said he will use the memory of defeat to Gallacher to inspire him when the tournament gets under way on October 5.
"The Alfred Dunhill Links is a very special event and one I love playing in. I lost in that play-off to Stephen Gallacher, so there is a little unfinished business for me there.
"I’m really looking forward to playing in the Dunhill Links again this year. It’s unique and a welcome change from the regular stroke play events we play. First off it’s played over three of the best links courses in the world and secondly we are teamed with amateurs for all rounds - I have very happy memories of playing with my dad Kenny."
The Northern Irishman's only previous victory in Scotland came at the 2008 Scottish Open, the fourth of McDowell's ten wins on tour.
McDowell is currently 149th in the Race to Dubai Rankings, so will be looking for a strong week to climb towards a coveted top 100 spot.
