Westwood happy despite tough day at US Open

The Worksop star shot a three-over round of 73 and sits seven shots behind leader Michael Thompson.

But with only six players under par going into round two, the 39-year-old is very much in contention.

He admitted the Olympic Club course was a tough challenge on day one but was happy with his performance in the conditions: “It’s set up hard, the greens are very firm, there’s a breeze. It’s a very difficult golf course.”

“You hit a lot of good drives that don’t end up on the fairways.”

“I don’t give up, I keep battling. You’ve just got to try to get as much out of your rounds as you can.”

“It’s a case of not giving in and trying not to make too many mistakes.”

“You don’t want to play chasing golf around here, firing at the pins. I’m pleased with three over par after the start.”

His playing partners Luke Donald and Rory McIlroy shot 79 and 77 respectively.

The trio tee off at the ninth hole today at 15:44.