Norman mourns lost 'character'

Greg Norman, last winner of the Open at Sandwich, today called on today’s stars to become more colourful.

“I think they should show a little bit more character on the course,” said the 48-year-old Australian, who can never be accused of being dull during his career.

“They all seem pretty much the same and they are mostly stoical. They all work with trainers, psychologists and nutritionists and it’s pure business.

“You don’t see a Craig Stadler any more or a Seve. And myself – I had a bit of flair and wore my heart on my sleeve.”

Norman believes the whole sport needs lifting – but does not blame the players for that.

“The industry is a bit flat and that’s something for everybody – the manufacturers, the R&A (Royal and Ancient Club) and USGA (United States Golf Association). We are not bringing players to the game and we have to stimulate that.

“We need to find some way to get the game moving again.”

Norman is sure this week will help because Royal St George’s is such a contrast to the standard fare served up.

“This is a different game and I’d like to see more of it around the world, but if I did this in the States I would be a laughing stock.

“I’d love to sit in the locker room for four hours after I play on Thursday and see what the players say.

“It’s quirky because of all the bounces you get and there are different little nuances to how you can play it.

“It’s tough to play mentally. On the first, for example, I doubt if 20% of the field will stay on the fairway with their drives even if they hit it down the middle.”

Back problems mean that the former world number one is playing only his third tournament of the year – he even had injections before making the flight over - but he is thrilled to be back at the scene of his 1993 victory, when he finished with a 64 to set the lowest total in Open history.

“The memory banks have been getting refreshed the last six months and when I played yesterday I just wanted to savour being back here. It’s special.

“Obviously my game is not what I would like it, but I would not be here if I didn’t think I could perform well.”

Norman does not like the changes to the 10th and 13th tees, one because of the angle and the other because of the blind landing area.

In a wide-ranging interview Norman was also asked about drug-testing in view of the recent French Open, where four European tour players were asked for samples by the French Sports Ministry.

“I’m all for mandatory spot checks – I’ve been saying that for 20 years,” he commented. “The same with equipment.”