THE 150TH OPEN

July 17, 2022

Dean Burmester

Mixed Zone

Q. Dean, that's a heck of a round. You've got to be really pleased with that?

DEAN BURMESTER: I played well, made great putts early on. Momentum was with me. I kept that throughout the day. The Road Hole got me all week, but I learned from it. We've got to come back here in October. So we're going to learn something from that, and if it's how to play the Road Hole, then that's great.

I'm really chuffed. Made the cut on the number and I'm here standing talking to you, so good weekend.

Q. Looks like it's going to be a top 10. You've got to be really pleased with the way you finished out there?

DEAN BURMESTER: If that's the case, then I'll be over the moon, if I get a top 10. But worst case scenario, top 15, top 20, best finish in a major.

I'm really happy with the way I progressed and how comfortable I felt out there. I didn't feel out of place. And that to me says a lot. And maybe one day I can lift one of these things.

Q. What do you take out of a week like this? Obviously been a great showing, but in general what have you learned about yourself and your game and how you prepare for these events?

DEAN BURMESTER: I learn never to give up, honestly. There was a stage there on Friday when we had the wind switch and I was just playing into the wind, the back nine. It was just so hard, and I was grinding it out. Never gave up and birdied the last to make the cut on the number. And took that momentum and confidence into yesterday and shot 5-under. And today I shot 6-under.

So anything's possible, just never give up. I think that's just a good mantra for me.

Q. Could you freewheel a little bit, having made it through on the number and just knowing that still opens you up a little for the weekend play?

DEAN BURMESTER: Certainly. Francesco and I pulled each other along, like I said, yesterday. And we had the best of the weather I think early on. And we took advantage of that. And so when I felt comfortable and I made a few birdies, then it was just a matter of how many more can I make. And here I am, 11-under, later.

Q. What's your plan now going forward?

DEAN BURMESTER: We are heading back to our place, have a place south of London. We'll be heading back there. And a good mate of mine just got called up to the T20 squad. I'll go watch him play T20s and visit Lourdes, which is something I've never done. And hopefully watch Proteas beat England all over the park.