McDowell has shin splints, doubtful for European Open

text size

VIRGINIA WATER, England (AP) -- Graeme McDowell is in doubt for next week's European Open because of shin splints in his right leg.

Redington/Getty Images

Graeme McDowell's shin splints might keep him out of next week's European Open.

The Northern Irishman, who shot a 4-under 68 at the BMW PGA Championship on Saturday, has been in pain since withdrawing from halfway through the third round of last week's Irish Open after shooting a course-record 61 in Round 2.

McDowell made birdies on the last three holes at Wentworth on Saturday after just making the cut on Friday.

"I will see how tomorrow goes, and I will make a decision from there," he said. "I am just struggling to get around, and, at this stage, I am 50-50 for next week. It's just that I am in a fair bit of pain at the moment, and walking is very uncomfortable all the way around the course.

"It feels worst in the mornings and was very much the case this morning. A 68 eases a bit of the pain but it's still very sore, very sore."

McDowell had a scan earlier this week that cleared him of a stress fracture, which would have put him out for up to a month.

"I've got a tight strap on my foot, and I'm on some painkillers," he said. "Thankfully, it's not affecting my golf swing. I'm hitting the ball really nicely, but it is affecting my concentration a bit. It's a tear and has to heal itself.

"There's not much I can do about it but soldier on. It's frustrating for me right now, but it will pass, hopefully."