Bradley Neil says his preparation for this week’s Open championship could not have gone any better.
After playing practice rounds with Adam Scott and Justin Rose, the 18-year-old amateur teamed up with Stephen Gallacher to defeat fellow Scots Paul Lawrie and Paul McKechnie in a bounce match at Royal Liverpool yesterday.
Neil, who earned his spot in the field after winning last month’s Amateur championship, said: “I was just delighted I didn’t lose any money. My game’s in really good shape. I was happy with it yesterday and it’s got even better today.
“It was great to have the chance to play with Justin as well. It was great to see him in his office for nine holes. He’s so professional.
“We chatted a bit but I didn’t want to get in his way too much. He’s given me his details though and told me to get in touch if I need anything.”
Neil’s Amateur win means he also has a place at the US Open and the Masters to look forward to next year and the young Scot is already lining up a match against Tiger Woods at Augusta.
He said: “The closest I’ve got to Tiger is speaking to his coach Sean Foley.
“He told me to go up to him on the range and speak to him. He said he would appreciate it if I introduced myself.
“I’d be so frightened but I’d love to blag a round with him at Augusta.
“It’s been an absolute bonus to play with the likes of Adam Scott and Justin Rose and to play with Tiger would be amazing.”