PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. — Paul Lawrie withdrew Monday from the U.S. Open because of a groin injury, becoming the first reigning British Open champion in 34 years to not play the U.S. Open.
Lawrie missed the Buick Classic last week because of the injury. He said he received extensive treatment but was advised to skip the U.S. Open.
He needs further rest and treatment and wants to be "completely cured" before returning to the tour, Lawrie said in a statement released by IMG.
The last British Open champion to miss the U.S. Open was Peter Thomson, who decided not to play the '66 Open at The Olympic Club outside San Francisco.
Lawrie will be replaced in the 156-man field by Don Pooley, who was the odd man out when 13 players competed for 12 spots in a playoff at the sectional qualifier in Rockville, Md. Pooley was the first alternate.
Lawrie hopes to return to a full schedule within the next few weeks and be ready to defend his British Open title at St. Andrews, July 20-23.
The Scottish golfer won at Carnoustie last year in a playoff against Jean Van de Velde and Justin Leonard.