John Daly says he’s already requested to use a golf cart at the British Open

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — John Daly has gained plenty of attention for using a cart at this week’s PGA Championship, and he said on Thursday he’s already applied to use one for this year’s British Open at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland.

Daly, who requested to use a cart under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), was granted permission from the PGA of America due to the osteoarthritis in his right knee that prevents him from walking a full 18 holes on Tour courses.

It has stirred a debate this week at Bethpage Black, but Daly said it’s either that or he can’t play.

“Doctors tell me I’m too young to get a knee surgery, get it replaced,” he said after his round on Thursday. “I enjoy playing. I’m still competitive, and I think getting to play hopefully the British in a cart… Past champions I think if we can play, no matter what it takes, I think we should.”

Daly, who shot 75 on Thursday (T112), said he has yet to hear if his request has been been granted for the British Open, which is July 18-21.

“I think they are going to find out through the PGA of America and work together,” he said. “And Ireland is big on ADA like most countries should be, but trust me, if I could walk I’d rather walk. I feel like I play better, always have played better when I walk. If I don’t [get a cart] I’m not going to play, I won’t be able to finish.”

Daly, due to his 1995 Open win at St. Andrews, has an exemption into the British Open through the age of 65. He didn’t play last year’s Open and missed the cut from 2014-17.

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