Rickie Fowler is hoping it is third time lucky at this week’s Open championship.
The American has already finished tied fifth at the Masters and tied second at the US Open earlier this year ahead of this week’s third major of the year at Royal Liverpool.
The 25-year-old looked in fine form at Royal Aberdeen as he carded a final round of 65 to finish on nine under for the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open.
He said: “The main goal at the start of the year was to be ready to go at the majors. At Augusta, Bubba Watson and Jordan Spieth ran away a little but to finish fifth there was good. Playing the weeks before the US Open helped me. It made sure I knew where my game was at. I played well at the US Open and was tied second there.
“I have got off to a good start with how I have played at the Scottish Open, so I am excited for this week.”
Fowler, who has already spoken about his desire to return to the north-east of Scotland for a golfing holiday with his friends, said he has thoroughly enjoyed his stay in Aberdeen.
He added: “I had a great time. I stayed at Trump’s place during the week and that is a great spot to hang out.
“I couldn’t wait to get out on the course as the conditions were perfect. The rain softened the course up and there wasn’t a lot of wind.
“I knew I was going to have to make some birdies if I wanted to at least hold my position or move up. I did just that after getting off to a great start. It was a pretty simple round other than a couple of bad swings that really cost me. I made a double at nine that set me back.
“But I made a lot of birdies and had a lot of fun this week at the Scottish Open. I’m now really looking forward to the Open.”