Langer still unsure of British Open spot

Bernhard Langer remains on standby for the British Open championship after American Sean O’Hair decided to accept his place for winning the John Deere Classic last night.

O’Hair was initially unsure whether he would take up the place after claiming his first PGA Tour title with a final round 65 in Illinois, revealed he did not even have a passport and would make the decision based on his family rather than his career.

But he has now confirmed to tournament organisers he will take his place in the 156-man field set to compete over the Old Course at St Andrews.

Former European Ryder Cup captain Langer would have taken O’Hair’s place as the next player from the world rankings not already exempt.

Langer attempted to qualify via international final qualifying in New Jersey but, along with Justin Rose, failed to make it.

The 47-year-old also failed to qualify last year at Royal Troon, ending a run of 24 consecutive appearances.

O’Hair is a former teenage prodigy who turned professional at 17 and was guided by his father before the relationship dissolved.

He has not spoken to his father since his wedding in December 2002 and now receives support from his wife, Jackie, and her parents, Kathy and Steve Lucas. He also has a toddler daughter.

“I had a tough situation when I was a kid. That’s the easiest way to put it,” said O’Hair. “It just was not a happy situation, and there was a lot of pressure there, and I just think now it’s the exact opposite.”