Open practice pictures: on and off course

We round up the action and sights from Monday's practice day at St Andrews

Monday’s practice round starting times being posted on a board for the benefit of spectators at The Old Course at St Andrews.

Sir Nick Faldo talks to Fanny Sunesson. Sunesson caddied for Faldo from 2000 to 2009 and was on his bag when he won four of his Majors.

Faldo has originally announced that this year’s Open would be his final Open appearance. The three-time Open champion had planed to bow out at the venue of his 1990 Open victory.

He had said when announcing his decision that “The Open and St Andrews will forever hold a significant place in my heart. My fondest moments on my journey with this great sport are woven with pictures and emotions in this setting. It all means a huge amount to me.”

But Sir Nick has since changed his mind, and now plans to play in the next two Open Championships.

He has long since stopped playing in the other Majors but he has carried on playing in the Open Championship every year with the exception of 2008, 2001 and 2012.

Tom Watson tees off at the 4th during his practice round with Bill Haas. Watson has announced that this Open will be his final one, 40 years after his first appearance in the event, which was at Carnoustie. He has received a dispensation from the R&A to play in this year’s Open. Watson, now 66, was runner-up six years ago at Turnberry when he lost the play-off to Stewart Cink.

Dustin Johnston tees off the on the Championship tee at the Road Hole, which is on part of an out of bounds area. He has been partnered with Jordan Spieth and Hideki Matsuyama in the first two days of the tournament.

Martin Kaymer chats with his brother Philip, who is also his agent, during practice.

A golf collector waits to ask players to sign a framed picture of St Andrews.

Some spectators watch the action on the 1st green.

Open practice pictures credits: Getty Images