Harrington says he is less stressed after Open double

By Larry Fine

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Michigan (Reuters) - Padraig Harrington's back-to-back British Open triumphs have made him a much more relaxed golfer, the Irishman said on Tuesday.

"I've changed ... I (used to) put myself under pressure," the 36-year-old told reporters ahead of the U.S. PGA Championship which starts on Thursday.

"I'm not as stressed. I obviously know I'm good enough to win."

Harrington made a successful defence of his British Open title when he romped to a four-stroke victory at Royal Birkdale last month.

"Last year was a higher high," he said of the playoff victory over Spain's Sergio Garcia at Carnoustie which made him the first Irishman in 60 years to claim the coveted Claret Jug.

"But this (one at Birkdale) was a lot more satisfying."

Harrington also partied less this time.

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