Rose reluctant to dwell on Birkdale memories

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

SOUTHPORT (Reuters) - Justin Rose, firmly established as one of the game's leading professionals, has no desire to turn back the clock when he competes in this week's British Open at Royal Birkdale.

Ten years ago, Rose stunned the golf world with a grandstand finish at Birkdale, chipping in on the final hole to tie for fourth place and win the silver medal as the leading amateur.

Although he will forever treasure the stirring memories of being cheered loudly by the fans as he ended his amateur career in spectacular style, he is eager to play down the nostalgia and hype this week.

"To be honest, I think I have passed it," world number nine Rose told reporters on Monday after completing a practice round at Birkdale.

"I feel good will from everybody who knows the situation from 10 years ago but, at the same time, a lot has changed since then.

"Today was pretty much just a normal practice round. The 18th hole is special and it does bring back memories but it's time to get my game face on and do what I've got to do this week."

Rose, who clinched the European Tour order of merit for the first time last year by winning the season-ending Volvo Masters, accepts he will face great pressure this week.

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