The Open: Henrik Stenson’s long wait continues

This year’s runner-up emulated the feat of compatriot Jesper Parnevik, who was second in the 1994 and 1997 Opens, but Sweden’s long wait for a first major champion goes on.

“I felt the support from the  Swedes and a lot of the crowds in general today,” said Stenson, who finished tied third in the 2008 and 2010 Opens.

“Of course I want to make it happen, but all you can do is ask to give yourself a chance and I did that.”

Stenson continued: “I’m very  pleased with my performance over the week and today more so than yesterday.

“I thought I was in a good frame of mind and played some good golf. It was tougher out there today wind-wise and I got off to a great start.

“So I take a lot of positives and we’ll be back trying again.”

The former Ryder Cup player said he had made improvements in his game this season, but still lacked confidence in some areas. He birdied two of the first three holes yesterday and picked up two more shots at the ninth and 17th, but bogeys on the eighth, 12th and 13th left him three shots adrift of champion Mickelson.

“I’ve played this golf course very good,” Stenson said. “Even though I made a few mistakes, I haven’t made big mistakes that put me out of the tournament. Mentally, I’ve been in a good place all week.

“Experience is obviously a key factor and I’ve learned a lot this week.

“I’m ready to be back next year or at the US PGA Championship next month and hopefully I can put myself in another good position.”