Watson "emotional" after Open heroics
Ross Fisher may have to exit the event
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Friday, 17, Jul 2009 09:58
Five-time champion Tom Watson admitted he was left "emotional" after a terrific end to his second round saw him take a share of the lead at the Open.
The 59-year-old Watson was on fire yesterday as he carded a brilliant five-under-par 65 to take the lead, but all his good work on the first day looked to be in vain as he lost five shots in the opening six holes.
Watson though fought back and putted a birdie on the ninth hole and three more on the back nine, including two monster 60 foot birdies on the holes 16 and 18.
"I'm still emotional after that," admitted Watson. "It's as if the spirits are on my side and I wouldn't be here if I didn't think I'd win it.
"The front nine is the toughest part of the golf course but I told myself that if I played smart coming home I would make some birdies.
"On the front nine the only thing I was trying to do was play one shot at a time and trying to get the birdie that would stem the tide. I did that at nine."
Englishman Ross Fisher is the highest placed European after his second round 68 put him on three-under-par. However, Fisher insisted that he will exit the tournament should his pregnant wife go into labour.
"I'd love to be here for all four days but obviously my wife comes first," said Fisher. "If she were to go into labour later on this evening or tomorrow I've got no choice. I want to be there. It's going to be a great experience and one that I don't want to miss."