June28 Jean
Last updated:
Jean van de Velde’s dreams of a return to Carnoustie for this year’s Open Championship could be shattered after it emerged he was fighting a mystery illness.
The mercurial Frenchman lost a play-off to Paul Lawrie last time the tournament was held at Carnoustie in 1999, but the illness is hampering his hopes of qualifying for this year’s event.
He said: “I’ve been physically sick on occasions, including on the course during the Wales Open. I’m going to have a camera put down my stomach.”
The 41-year-old is playing in the French Open this week and needs a top-two finish to guarantee a spot at the Open next month.
Van de Velde appeared to have the 1999 tournament won, but a 72nd hole collapse forced a play-off which eventually yielded Lawrie as the winner, the last European victor in a Major.
Photo: Getty Images
