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Frustrated John Daly smashes camera

Thursday, 11 December 2008
Michael Weston
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Spectator Brad Clegg with his broken camera after John Daly had intervened

A frustrated John Daly took his anger out on a spectator’s camera at the Australian Open after opening with a disappointing 78.

The two-time Major winner found trees on the ninth, and lost his temper as Brad Clegg started taking photographs.

Daly, 42, reportedly grabbed the camera and launched it at a tree leaving Clegg to search for the item.

The fiery American left the ninth – his last hole – with a bogey and in a statement shortly afterwards said: "I was looking to take a drop and a camera was six inches away from my face. If I was 10 under, I would have felt the same."

Since his promising form at the Hong Kong Open, Daly has not enjoyed life down under where he has missed the cut at the Australian Masters and PGA.

Fellow professional Stuart Appleby also labelled Daly a “train wreck”, referring to the American’s personal life that has involved marital, gambling and alcohol problems.

Despite the latest controversy the 1995 Open champion looks likely to escape punishment.

Tournament director Trevor Herden described it "an unfortunate incident", but added that Daly would not face sanctions and would tee off in the second round on Friday.

Meanwhile, Clegg joked: "I don't think I'll be chasing him for the money. He's a big bloke!"