When Paul McGinley set off at eight under par in his final round at St Andrews yesterday, he was without his amateur partner and friend, Kyle MacLachlan – the American actor, presently the star of the hit television series Desperate Housewives.

The pair did not advance as a team, but McGinley was full of praise for his team-mate. “It’s difficult for Kyle because he’s out of his environment, doing something at which, in professional terms, he is not as proficient,” the Irishman said. “It’s like me going on the West End stage or performing live on TV. It’s a very daunting prospect.

“We’ve played together before and become good friends. I stay with Kyle when I’m in LA and he comes to stay with me. He’s even taken me on the set of Desperate Housewives, where I got to see Wisteria Lane.

“I really enjoy pro-ams. I’ve met many interesting people who have become friends and have given me good stock-market tips. I’ve also won a lot of pro-ams and wish I’d have been as successful in the tournaments themselves. The Dunhill is a pro-am multiplied by ten. It provides a good form of golf on courses that are not set up that difficult. The amateurs are also well versed on when to pick up.”

MacLachlan, meanwhile, admitted to suffering from nerves. “First tee is worse than first night,” he said. “As an amateur this is something special. Just to rub shoulders with these guys, to walk the course with them and see how the game should be played is inspirational.”