Andrew Novak

Andrew Novak makes his Open debut – only the fourth major of his career – less than three months after he teamed up with Ben Griffin to capture the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

They defeated twins Rasmus and Nicolai Hojgaard by one for the win - Novak's maiden PGA Tour success.

It was quite a month for the 30-year-old. He began it with joint third at the Valero Texas Open and on his next start two weeks later he tied with Justin Thomas in the RBC Heritage, but lost to a birdie on the first play-off hole.

From 80th in the world rankings he climbed to 33rd, with the top 50 come the end of May all earning exemptions to Royal Portrush.

The season has also included another tie for third at January’s Farmers Insurance Open, where he finished only two strokes behind winner Harris English.

Novak turned professional in 2017, but his first major appearance was not until the 2022 US Open and his next was May’s PGA Championship.

Graduated from the Korn Ferry Tour to the PGA circuit four years ago.