The Open: Emotional Calum Scott soaks up Silver Medal triumph

An emotional Calum Scott said walking down the final hole at Royal Troon on his way to winning the Open Championship’s prestigious Silver Medal was one of the “best moments” of his life.

Scott – from Nairn in the Highlands – finished eight over for the tournament to win the prize, awarded to the leading amateur, three shots ahead of the USA’s Tommy Morrison.

“It’s one of the great honours as an amateur golfer,” Scott said. “It’s unbelievable, I’m super happy.

“Obviously I didn’t play very well today, but it was good enough to win.”

In windy conditions, scoring was tricky for all players. Scott says the prospect of winning the Silver Medal and following in the footsteps of Matt Fitzpatrick, Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose helped him stay positive during a testing back nine.

“I had three bogeys in a row, so I wasn’t in the best space mentally,” he added.

“I was like ‘where am I in regards to amateurs’? I found out I still had a fair few shots, so I cheered up a bit at that point.

“Walking down 18 is one of the best moments of my life so far. I had played in the Walker Cup and that was amazing as well, but that was very special. I got a bit emotional coming down the last hole, but I still had putts to hit.”

It’s been a successful few weeks for Scottish golf; Ewen Ferguson won the BMW International Open in Munich before Bob MacIntyre triumphed at last week’s Scottish Open at the Renaissance Club, and Scott – who aims to turn professional next year – wants to replicate those tour wins in the future.

“It’s great what Bob and Ewen have done and are doing,” he added. “They are playing some amazing golf on the biggest stage and that’s something I aspire to do.”