PGA Tour star Rickie Fowler hailed Royal Portrush after the American booked his spot in the field for July's major in County Antrim. The popular golfer revealed that links golf is his 'favourite' as he expressed his delight about qualifying for the season's final major on the Emerald Isle. Fowler has booked his spot at The Open after emerging as the highest finisher at the Memorial Tournament that was not already exempt. The Californian and Brandt Snedeker both finished tied for seventh at one under. But it was Fowler who got the nod thanks to his superior position in the Official World Golf Ranking — entering the week at No. 124 compared to Snedeker’s No. 430. Irish fans will be delighted with the result as the popular player has a huge following. In what's been a rollercoaster few years for the six-time PGA Tour winner, he said that he can't wait to head back to Northern Ireland in July. Speaking with the media after his final-round in Ohio, Fowler said qualification for this year's Open was a prime target. He said: " A definite positive is going over to Portrush, that's one I wanted on the schedule. "I had a great time over there... when were there last - had a decent showing as well, so... "Links golf is my favourite, and Portrush is a great spot. So, I'm excited of that opportunity." Fowler indeed does play some of his best golf on Links tracks, he finished 6th in 2019 - with a best finish of 2nd at the 2014 Open Championship at Royal Liverpool. Meanwhile, Scottie Scheffler has become the first golfer since Tiger Woods to defend the Memorial Tournament title. The world number one held his nerve to clinch a third PGA Tour title of the season with a commanding win at the Memorial Tournament - and made history in the process. He added the title to his triumphs at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson and the PGA Championship. The Dallas superstar edged past Ben Griffin in a tense final-round battle at Muirfield Village. 28-year-old Scheffler carded a composed 70 to finish four shots clear of the field in Dublin, Ohio.