Colin Montgomerie goes straight back into action after his US Open heartbreak, boosted by more than 1,000 messages from fans and fellow players.
Runner-up for a record fifth time in a major after double-bogeying the final hole at Winged Foot in New York on Sunday night, Montgomerie flew back to London and then drove up to Scotland for the Johnnie Walker Championship starting at
Gleneagles tomorrow.
Manager Guy Kinnings said today that more than 1,000 well-wishers have been onto the Scot's website and there have also been between 50 and 60 calls from players.
"It means a massive amount to me," commented Montgomerie before starting his pro-am round in rain and 35mph winds on the course that will stage the 2014 Ryder Cup. "Even people around where I live have dropped in letters while they've been out walking their dogs or whatever. That they've taken the trouble to do that is really nice.
"To have players getting in touch is huge too. Of course I'm disappointed that I didn't win and that I messed up on the last, but for players I have a great deal of respect for to say what they have is a big boost."
Montgomerie was tied for the lead with Phil Mickelson when he missed the green and three-putted for a six. Twenty minutes later Mickelson, in the final group, also double-bogeyed and handed the title to Australian Geoff Ogilvy.
