Faldo’s Muirfield hat-trick a distant dream
Nick Faldo headed straight to the practice ground after his 45th birthday ended in disappointment at Muirfield.
Faldo, winner of the last two Opens at Muirfield in 1987 and 1992, bogeyed the final hole to card a two-over-par 73 and was in no mood to share his thoughts on the round with waiting reporters.
The six-time major winner had battled back from being three over after 10 holes, birdies on the 11th and 15th keeping him in sight of the leaders.
But his approach to the 18th found a greenside bunker and with one foot perched halfway up the face of the trap, he could only just splash the ball onto the green before losing his balance and ending up on the seat of his pants.
It was an undignified end to a day that had begun with a rousing reception from the crowd around the first tee, and playing partner Phil Mickelson had not even wished him many happy returns.
‘‘Shoot, I didn’t know, I didn’t say anything,’’ said Mickelson, who in contrast birdied the last for a 68 and was quick to sing Faldo’s praises.
‘‘I have always enjoyed playing with Nick. He has great ball control, a wonderful ball striker. He has always been very nice to me and I have always enjoyed his company.
‘‘I don’t necessarily like to chat around the course but we had a couple of nice conversations.’’
