Level-Headed Catriona Matthew Stands Up To Elements In Women's Open theguardian.com

Anyone disregarding Catriona Matthew’s chances of winning the Women’s Open has a loose grasp of history. The Scot has previous for delivering extraordinary storylines. Eleven years have passed since she triumphed in this major, within three months of giving birth to her second daughter and days after fleeing a burning hotel.

Now, she merely has professional imbalances to overturn; the 50-year‑old lies 407th in the world rankings. Links golf, though, is a great leveller.

R&A hopes hard work pays off as Royal Troon welcomes Women's Open
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During an opening round where Royal Troon was battered by gusts – more of the same is forecast for day two – Matthew’s level-par 71 was an outstanding performance. Primarily, that is, because she delivered four birdies. A dropped shot at the last could not and should not diminish praise of her fine start. She did not miss a fairway despite the ferocious breeze.