America's David Duval will compete in next month's European Open at the K Club, it was confirmed this afternoon.
Duval, who has previously competed professionally in Ireland at the WGC at Mount Juliet, is a regular visitor to the Straffan venue as part of his British Open preparations.
The 2001 Open champion has had a disappointing season to date, slipping to 82nd in the most recent world rankings. A string of missed cuts, including an early exit at Olympia fields last weekend having posted a two-round total of 10-over-par, haven't helped and he will be hoping he can rediscover some form this side of the Atlantic.
"I am very much looking forward to travelling to The K Club and playing in the Smurfit European Open," said Duval. "I have heard a lot about how welcoming and knowledgeable the Irish golf fans are and having enjoyed a number of wonderful fishing holidays there in the past, I am sure it will be a fun week."
Dr Michael Smurfit, Chairman of the Jefferson Smurfit Group, said: "The Smurfit European Open has a tradition of featuring the top players from around the world and David Duval certainly fits into that category.
"He is a Major winner and a Ryder Cup player and I am sure he will be a popular attraction for the galleries which always turn out in good numbers at The K Club."