Lawrie rolling back the years

Former Open champion Paul Lawrie has finally made his long-awaited return to the world's top-50 following his sensational victory at last month's Qatar Masters, with the Scot insisting there is plenty yet to come this year. The victory sees Lawrie leap from 78th up to 47th in the rankings, a return to the top-50 for the first time since 2003.

The 43-year old produced a stunning final round 65 in Qatar to romp home ahead of Jason Day and Peter Hanson in joint second, showing the sort of form that saw him claim a famous Open victory back in 1999. Those following the online betting odds will be wondering if he can push on from here.

Injury and a lack of form plagued Lawrie following his Carnoustie triumph; however, it looks as though the experienced Scot has now rediscovered his game and this year already looks set to be a whole lot different than the last couple.

Lawrie's new ranking means he is now set to return to Augusta for his first Masters' appearance since 2004, as well securing his place at the Accenture World Match Play later this month.  

The Scot made no secret of his delight at returning under the game's spotlight following his Qatar success, admitting he feels in better form than he was during his major winning season of 1999.  

"I feel I'm getting better. I feel my ball-striking has improved immensely since I turned 40."

"I'm hitting it a lot further than I probably ever hit it. My short game and putting was probably a little better back in 1999, but I'm a much better player."

"The hard work I did over the last couple of years is obviously paying off."
 

Comments