Defending champion Graeme McDowell strangely launched into a vigorous defence on behalf of guaranteed Ryder Cup rookie Victor Dubuisson after the second round of the French Open.
McDowell recorded four birdies and half the number of bogeys in a two under 69 and move to three under par on the 2018 Ryder Cup National course outside of Versailles.
However the current World No. 20 finds himself in a seven way share of fourth place, along with Belfast’s Michael Hoey, and seven strokes behind visiting American Kevin Stadler.
Graeme McDowell emerges from the bushes to launch a stinging attack at French golf media. (Photo – David Lloyd/www.golffile.ie)
Stadler somewhat soured his 4th July Independence Day celebration doubling the last hole in a score of 68 but with the reigning PGA Tour’s Waste Management Phoenix Open winner leading the way by three shots at 10-under par.
However after having spent two days alongside Dubuisson, McDowell was out-spoken of the French media who continue to single out Dubuission over his long-term frosty dealings with a home press.
“You tend to forget sometimes Victor is only 24 who’s a good ball-striker and a dynamic golfer with a great short game,” said McDowell.
“Yes, he’s a quiet, shy under-stated guy and certainly not arrogant in any shape or form.
“The French media should give Victor the chance to see how good he can be and not coming here to France to prove something this week.
“I feel bad for him so it was great to see him fight back and make the cut, and I think he will be a great Ryder Cup player.
Victor Dubuisson facing the French press after his second round. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)
“He’s a very dynamic player and I said to him out there today, that if I make the team perhaps he and I could play better ball together as that would be a lot of fun, so watch this space.”
Hoey, who is seeking to secure one of the three spots available this week into the British Open and join both McDowell and Dunne, capped his 66 and equal lowest round of a day with four birdies in a row from the 13th hole.
“This is lowest-ever score around here is really pleasing,” he said.
“The four birdies in a row was the key but then I hit it in the water again on 18, and that’s three balls into the water at 18 this week and I’m still three under.
“Also I’m in good shape to secure one of the three spots into The Open Championship so that’s now an added incentive over the weekend.”
Damien McGrane birdied two of his three closing holes in a 69 to move to two under par and one clear of Ballyclare’s Gareth Maybin (68).
However Padraig Harrington was cut from the event with scores of 74 and 73.
