Former Ryder Cup captain Gallacher hospitalised

Scottish golfer described as ‘critical but stable’ by son Stephen

Former Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher has been hospitalised in Scotland. Photograph: Scott Heavey/Getty Images
Former Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher has been hospitalised in Scotland. Photograph: Scott Heavey/Getty Images

Former Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher is in a "critical" condition in hospital.

Gallacher is being treated in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, NHS Grampian has confirmed.

George O’Grady, chief executive of the European Tour, said: “We are in touch with Bernard’s wife Lesley and the Gallacher family and, obviously, we join with everyone in wishing Bernard a speedy recovery.”

His nephew Stephen, who pulled out of the Wales Open during his second round on Friday morning due to a back injury, said: “I understand that he is critical but stable. My family is in disarray at the moment and it is obviously a worrying situation. We are all anxious.”

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Gallacher turned professional in 1967 and was named the Sir Henry Cotton rookie of the year the following season.

In 1969 he became the youngest winner of the prestigious PGA Championship at 20 years and 97 days, a record which stood until earlier this year when Italian Matteo Manassero triumphed at Wentworth aged 20 years and 37 days.