Ambassador Knox to play in Gullane’s Scottish Open

The 29-year-old, who hails from Inverness but has been based in Jacksonville, Florida, since his college days there, has committed to the East Lothian event as part of a new deal with its title sponsor.

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As one of the company’s “brand ambassadors”, Knox joins a portfolio of sponsored players which includes Colin Montgomerie, Paul Lawrie, Martin Laird and Catriona  Matthew.

“We are delighted that Russell has joined the Aberdeen family of golfers,” said Martin Gilbert, CEO of Aberdeen Asset Management. “We very much look forward to working with him in the US and back home in Scotland for our flagship event, the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open.”

Knox, who once shot a 59 on the developmental Nationwide Tour in the US, enjoyed the best season of his career last year, finishing 40th in the FedEx Cup after getting into a play-off in the Honda Classic.

After missing out when the event was held at Castle Stuart, he also made his debut in the Scottish Open at Royal Aberdeen. After an opening 68, he was tied for ninth with defending champion Phil Mickelson before finishing joint 27th behind winner Justin Rose.

“I am thrilled to partner with Aberdeen Asset Management,” said the world No 104 as he prepared to make his 2015 debut in this week’s Sony Open in Hawaii. “I always aspired to join their team of ambassadors, many of whom were my idols as I grew up in Inverness dreaming of playing professional golf. I am honoured to represent Aberdeen.”

Confirmation of Knox’s appearance comes as fans are being reminded that “early-bird ticket offers” for the  Gullane event on 9-12 July are available until the end of this month.