World number five Matt Kuchar is in danger of missing the cut at the French Open after a disastrous second round 75 left him on four over and nine shots off the pace set by clubhouse leaders Thomas Bjorn of Denmark and South African Richard Sterne.
A round that included four bogeys and not a single birdie left his championship ambitions in tatters after the course at Le Golf National bared its teeth.
“I had a good day yesterday and then today (Friday) was a bit of a struggle,” explained the 35-year-old.
“I was just not as sharp off the tee and played too many times out of the rough.
“This course is a fantastic golf course. I wasn’t on great form and it got the better of me.
“On this course, you’d better be playing well or else you’re going to make some bogeys.”
Kuchar who last missed the cut at the PGA Championship in August began the tournament brightly with a one-under-par 70 on Thursday but is now set to miss the final two rounds.
The top 65 players plus ties qualify for the final two rounds while any amateurs inside the cutline will be added to the 65 professionals.
Kuchar was lying in a tie for 67th position with a host of golfers still out on the sun-baked, par-71 course and yet to complete their second round.
“I’m frustrated to be on the outside right now,” said Kuchar. “I don’t miss many cuts, it’s not something I’m used to doing.
“It doesn’t look very good for me right now to play the weekend which is disappointing.
“I came here looking to play some good golf and knew this golf course suited my eye well.”
The 2010 Ryder Cup member picked up tournament wins earlier this year at the WGC Matchplay championship as well as the Memorial Tournament in Ohio, founded by Jack Nicklaus, but a chance at a seventh career win now appears all but over.
“I’m surprised I went the whole day without a birdie,” he said.
“That’s definitely something I’m not accustomed to either. A course I enjoy, conditions are fantastic, not much wind, greens were great, and just not able to get a whole lot going today.”
Kuchar who is playing at the French Open for the first time, remained philosophical should he miss the cut.
“I really hope that things go my way and I make the cut, but if not, heck, I’m in France and not far away from Paris so I get to have a fun weekend.”
Kuchar to turn tourist as missed cut looms
