Antrim's Royal Portrush is set to burst into a hive of life and colour this July when The Open Championship returns to Irish shores. But it may just become a little bit more colourful again.
Should veteran John Daly and his coruscating collection of trousers grace the fairways at the Northern Ireland course, he is sure to be among the most popular attractions over the four-day event.
But his attendance at the tournament isn't guaranteed just yet. The 53-year-old has submitted a request to the R&A to use a buggy at the only European major, due to a knee problem which sees him using one at this week's US PGA Championship, too.
After his famous win at St Andrews in 1995, the American is eligible to compete at The Open until he reaches 60. A special exemption must be made for the star, however, is he needs to use a buggy at the event.
Who's excited? 🙋♂️ pic.twitter.com/pwmZdynmrh
— The Open (@TheOpen) February 3, 2019
A spokesperson for the R&A confirmed Daly had submitted a request and that tournament officials are currently considering it.
We have received a request from John Daly for permission to use a buggy at The Open and it is currently under consideration.
The use of the buggy has certainly divided opinions in the sport, and after missing the cut at the US PGA Championship yesterday Daly had his say on the issue.
I'm not one that wants to ride all the time. It's just something that if I don't, I'm not going to be able to play, I won't be able to finish. It's very awkward and it's almost to a point where it's embarrassing. I enjoy playing and I'm still competitive.
It's not really ego, as a former champion I feel obligated to play. I feel committed.
The 2019 Open Championship kicks off on July 18, with preparations already well underway for the biggest golfing event to take place on the island since the 2006 Ryder Cup.
