It's the "World Open" - Payne Stewart

Payne Stewart would happily trade at least one of his two US Open titles for the Championship he covets most of all.

"Even before I won my first US title in 1991, the Open had always been my top priority in golf," said Stewart, who was runner-up to Sandy Lyle in 1985 and to Nick Faldo five years later.

The man who conquered Pinehurst last month added: "The reason is very simple - it should be called the World Open.

"It has a truly international field and it is pure golf, the way the game was meant to be played.

"Unlike the other three majors, an Open course is never tricked up. Sure, it is tough, but the degree of difficulty is ruled by the elements - and that's exactly the way it should be."

Stewart has played every year since his debut in 1984 and is seeking to become the first golfer to complete the "Open double" since Tom Watson two years earlier.