The Open 2013 diary: Gary Player sticks to naked truth

Gary Player raised many eyebrows at the start of the week when pictures of the 77-year-old posing naked appeared in a magazine as part of an anti-obesity campaign.

But the nine times major-winning South African has no regrets about the two-hour photo shoot, which also featured Scotland’s 21-year-old ladies’ golf pin-up Carly Booth.

“It’s the best thing I have ever done, more satisfying than winning a major,” said Player. “Already we have had thousands and thousands of emails from parents saying they are going to watch what their children eat far more carefully.”

Westwood up for a double

Lee Westwood’s army of supporters could be in for a hefty payout over the next fortnight if the Englishman pulls off a big sporting double.

The former world No 1 goes into today’s third round at Muirfield in the top 10 and within reach of finally achieving his first major success at the ripe old age of 40.

Next month one of the horses he owns in co-partnership with his agent, Andrew “Chubby” Chandler, will chase one of racing’s big titles in the Stewards’ Cup at Glorious Goodwood. Hoof It won the prestigious sprint prize two years ago but missed 13 months after surgery for breathing difficulties, before returning at York last Saturday, and could be a good each-way bet at 20-1, doubled up with Westwood at Muirfield.

Matt sees no cons with pros

Darren Clarke may have a grumpy image with the media, but that doesn’t tell the whole story, according to an 18-year-old making his debut on the big stage

The 2011 Open winner adamantly refused to discuss his first round with the media. But Yorkshire’s Matt Fitzpatrick, who shot 73 and 76, said: “Players do not come across very well in the media but that’s not right. They could not have been nicer to me this week; and that’s everyone I played with.”