Harrington: In better shape
Padraig Harrington is confident he remains in the best of form after a week of celebrations following his second successive Open title.
However, the Irishman admitted that the aftermath this time around was less hectic than 12 months ago, when he totally lost his focus following a momentus first Major win.
"Winning it for a second time is different," Harrington said. "There was a severe high from winning at Carnoustie - messing up down 18, getting a second chance, taking that second chance and winning a first major and the adrenaline rush and everything that I did with it.
"You're only going to win your first major once and I made sure to enjoy it.
"There was a lot that happened afterwards and I was very flat after I won it. The Bridgestone, the PGA Championship, FedEx Cup, I really struggled.
"My game came back towards the end of the year and I had a couple of illnesses so it definitely took a lot out of me."
However, this time Harrington believes he can slip straight back into the groove, starting in the World Golf Championship event in Akron this week.
"This time round it was a more satisfying win, the way it happened was more confidence boosting and I was definitely walking away with a lot of satisfaction," he added.
"I did celebrate, had a couple of parties but I didn't do much of the extra stuff. I didn't do the civic reception, didn't do much media, one press conference, and I think that reflects the difference between winning the first and winning the second.
"So I'm in better shape, still a little bit flat and all the markers were down a little bit last week but gradually, hopefully, coming back this week, and hopefully I should be in better shape come the PGA next week."
