THE 154TH OPEN

July 16, 2026

Hennie du Plessis

Mixed Zone

Q. You started very nicely.

HENNIE DU PLESSIS: Yeah. First couple of holes, very nervous. I didn't really get into a rhythm at all. Then slowly but surely got into the round, got into the feel of things and start the hitting my shots, started seeing the shots better.

Yeah, I think overall, good round. Got a little upset about the last couple of holes. Had very good chances to make a couple of putts, but overall I think through the whole 18 holes, I think I managed myself very well being quite nervous in the spot, not really having rhythm, and I think I fought back nicely.

Q. I saw you had a new 2-iron in the bag yesterday. How important is course setup around here in terms of what you put in your bag and use for this week?

HENNIE DU PLESSIS: Yeah, with a 2-iron or a 7-wood, it's just what you feel comfortable hitting because you have to sort of make shots. There's a few different options you've got with a 2-iron. Same with a 7-wood. I just think the 2-iron is easier to control this week with it being firm.

It all depends on what you feel comfortable with, but I think I was very comfortable with 2-iron. That's why I sort of leaned towards that for these firm conditions.

Q. Now that you feel more comfortable, how will you take the next couple of days?

HENNIE DU PLESSIS: You know, take it the same as prep. You have to take it shot for shot. It starts with good recovery, good nutrition, so going to have good food, sort of just try and take it easy, hit a couple of balls, hit a couple of putts and just ease into the round tomorrow again.