Popular French golfer, Jean Van de Velde has been appointed Tournament Director of the French Open.

Van de Velde will work on the sponsor’s and organising side of the event. 

The 45-year old has won four times in his pro career including twice in the European Tour however he will always be known as the player who lost the 1999 Open Championship at Carnoustie.

Jean Van de Velde appointed French Open Tournament Director. (Photo - Jenny Matthews/www.golffile.ie)

However despite this, Van de Velde’s appointment is a welcome move.

“It is a smart decision by the organisers of the French Open to appoint Jean as a Tournament Director,” said fellow French player Christian Cevaer.

“Jean is very well respected and very passionate about the game of golf so I am sure that any player receives an invitation to compete in the French Open and signed by Jean that they will give serious consideration to playing.

“It will be much different if the letter was coming just from an organisation.

“So Jean’s appointment should be good for the future success of the French Open.”