McDowell recalls Open scrutiny

AS his immediate predecessor as US Open champion, Graeme McDowell knows exactly what Rory McIlroy is going through following his arrival at the British Open.

McIlroy entered Royal St George’s yesterday afternoon as the man of the moment three weeks on from his runaway victory at Congressional Country Club, just as his compatriot did in the wake of his Pebble Beach success in 2010.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how he goes this week,” McDowell said. “It’s going to be overwhelming for him. That is how it was for me last year. Just the response from players, crowds, and everyone involved in the media of course. It is a lot of fun and it makes you smile. But it is overwhelming as well. Celebrating can be draining, no doubt.”