Perry pulls out of Australian Open

American Kenny Perry has pulled out of next week’s Australian Open at the Victoria Golf Club, citing personal reasons.

The world No.28 was due to play in Australia for the second time after contesting the World Golf Championships Accenture Match Play Championship in January last year, but said in a statement he is unhappy at having to forgo the trip.

"I am disappointed that I have to withdraw from the Australian Open, but unfortunately do not have much choice due to personal reasons," Perry said. "I enjoyed Australia last year and was really looking forward to going back and staying longer this time."

Perry finished 27th on the US PGA Tour money list in 2002, with six top 10 results including seconds at the Phoenix Open and Mastercard Colonial, but his presence in the field, which was secured with the aid of appearance money, hadn’t pleased everyone.

With Perry and US PGA Championship winner Rich Beem paid to secure their signatures for the event, defending champion Stuart Appleby hit out at organisers, claiming some of the local stars should be rewarded rather than second-rate American players.

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