Golf: Faldo turns up heat on US Open

Nick Faldo believes the stifling heat in Tulsa will be a major factor during the US Open at Southern Hills Country Club.

The Oklahoma sun will see temperature soar into the mid-90s with conditions made even tougher for the players by high humidity.

And Faldo is convinced the conditions could make the difference between winning and losing as players find it hard to concentrate.

‘‘I’m sure of it,’’ said Faldo. ‘‘It will cause fatigue and fatigue may force you into a mental mistake.

‘‘It’s a little breezy on the course itself. Most of the guys today are fit, so they can handle these conditions pretty well.’’

Faldo will experience the afternoon heat on his very first round on Thursday when he tees off at 2pm alongside David Toms and Tim Herron.

World number one Tiger Woods is also concerning Faldo, with the three-time US Masters champion resigned to coming second best to the reigning champion if Woods can hit top form.

‘‘In a way he will dictate things. If he comes out in his usual fashion you just do the best you can on every single hole and then there’s not much you can do about it,’’ Faldo said.