Norman and Scott to head Australian Open field
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-05-11 14:56 Former world number one Greg Norman and current
number nine Adam Scott will head the field for this year's Australian Open at
the Royal Sydney Golf Club.
Norman, 51, and Scott, 25, have accepted invitations to play in the 91st
edition of their home Open from November 16-19.
"We are particularly delighted that Greg has agreed to play," Australian Open
chief executive Paul McNamee told a news conference on Thursday.
"There is no doubt that Greg has changed golf in this country forever,
dominating the sport internationally and paving the way for our current galaxy
of golfers."
Norman counts five Australian Opens among his 91 worldwide titles, which also
include two British Opens, but he has not played in the event since 2000.
"The Australian Open has shaped my development as a player and a person,"
Norman said.
"I am delighted to be able to play in this year's tournament. Golf in
Australia has a storied history and with the depth of talent in this country,
the present and future look even better."
McNamee said he also hoped to attract a number of other top Australian
players who, like Scott, spend most of their time on the U.S. PGA Tour.
They include Geoff Ogilvy, Stuart Appleby and Rod Pampling, who are all
ranked in the world's top 30.
"Australian players want to support the tournament and they have demonstrated
a desire to play if their schedules allow it," McNamee said.
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