Closure for Lyle in his Open row

Sandy Lyle and Peter Dawson, chief executive of the R&A, have ended their row over the former champion quitting The Open during the rain-lashed opening round.

Lyle walked off when he crashed to 11 over par after just 10 holes, claiming the conditions had turned him into "a complete headcase". Dawson led widespread criticism of the 50-year-old Scot by saying: "Professional golfers should complete a round. That is what they are paid to do."

But after the two men had had time to reflect, they both decided to say sorry. Dawson said: "I had a very apologetic letter from Sandy and we spoke on the phone.

"He does have some problem with his fingers but I think he regrets walking off and I regret one or two remarks. It is now a closed issue."