LONDON – Former U.S. Open champion Graeme McDowell said he is looking for assistance from Air France after losing his clubs on a flight ahead of the British Open qualifier on Tuesday.
The 38-year-old from Northern Ireland travelled from Charles de Gaulle airport to Manchester for a 36-hole qualifier at St Annes near Blackpool, bidding for a spot at this year's third major at Carnoustie.
“Flew into Manchester last night from Charles de Gaulle (Airport) and my golf clubs are untraceable,” McDowell, the 2010 U.S. Open winner, said on Twitter. “I have a 36 (hole) qualifier for the Open and really need my bag in advance. Help.”
Need assistance from @airfrance. Flew into Manchester last night from CDG and my golf clubs are untraceable. I have a 36 qualifier tomorrow for @TheOpen and really need my bag. Thanks in advance. #help
— Graeme McDowell (@Graeme_McDowell) July 2, 2018
McDowell is then scheduled to compete at the Irish Open, which begins on Thursday.
He said he might cut his losses and focus on the event in County Donegal.
“Clubs still not on way from Paris. Established that they are in the black hole known as CDG,” McDowell tweeted. “Looking doubtful I will participate tomorrow @TheOpen qualifier.”
“Have to start switching my brain to DDFIrishOpen. @TheOpen spots there also. Still need clubs!!!,” he said.
Clubs still not on way from Paris. Established that they are in the black hole known as CDG. @airfrance and @AirFranceUK have been very quiet on Twitter lately so no communication. Looking doubtful I will participate tomorrow @TheOpen qualifier.
— Graeme McDowell (@Graeme_McDowell) July 2, 2018
The 147th Open begins on July 19.