Liam Nolan hopes to continue enjoying himself as he makes his Open debut at Royal Troon this afternoon in what will be his first ever appearance at a major.

The Galway amateur (24) qualified for the tournament earlier this month after finishing tied-second at the 36-hole qualifying event at the Dundonald Links, located close to this year's Open venue.

Walker Cup star Nolan is planning on turning professional later this summer and will hope to be a regular at major events in the years ahead, but he has described the past few days as "special", having played practice rounds with Shane Lowry, Padraig Harrington and American Todd Hamilton, who won The Open at Troon back in 2004.

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"It’s been pretty special," said Nolan of the week so far. "Lot more numbers here today, so it’s getting that little bit more nervy. Trying to enjoy every bit of it. Hopefully, that looks after the nerves.

"Tuesday, I played with Todd Hamilton, which was really special, on the back nine. He was very generous sharing all of his knowledge when he won here in 04. Really cool to walk and play with him, and ask him a lot of questions, and also played with John Catlin (2020 Irish Open winner), who was also fun to play with."

Nolan will be among the last few players to take to the course this afternoon, with his group, which includes New Zealand's Kazuma Kobori and fellow amateur Jaime Montojo Fernandez, who hails from Spain, the third last out.

"I don’t mind," stated Nolan of the late start. "I know Jaime from Spain really well. Played with him a few times before. Nice to have a familiar face. I don’t know him (Kobori) as well. Looking forward to getting going.

"The goal is to enjoy myself, keep striking it the way I am and see where I end up Sunday evening.

"I don’t believe in that (setting a target of making the cut). "I just want to play well and see where that leaves me."

Nolan also got the opportunity to prepare for one of his practice rounds alongside Tiger Woods this week.

He told Sky Sports' 'Live at the Range': "Well... the range was packed. I wouldn't do it if there were just two people and just go straight behind him but...

"The range was pretty packed, and I saw a free spot beside him and I was like, 'absolutely'.

"Like... when will you get that chance - I think a few people saw me on TV sneak in behind him as well.

"I mean to hit balls beside the greatest to ever do it - in my opinion - is a dream come through.. and you wouldn't get it anywhere else."

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