The tournament’s official airline Qatar Airways stepped in when Scott’s clubs were lost in San Francisco and then flown on to Frankfurt as the Australian made his way to Doha to defend his title.

 

The loss of his clubs meant Scott opted not to play in the pre-event Rolex Pro-Am – although he did walk the course with his amateur partners – and there was a fear his title defence would start with a set of unfamiliar clubs.

 

However, tournament organisers contacted Qatar Airways and the airline pulled out all the stops to make sure the clubs were delivered to the champion’s hotel just over 12 hours before his tee time.

 

“Qatar Airways deserve every credit for stepping in to solve a problem that was not of their making,” said a spokesman for Scott. “They contacted their people in Frankfurt who personally ensured the golf bag was put on a flight to Doha.”

 

Scott, who has never lost when competing at Doha Golf Club, added: “I’m absolutely delighted at the human touch shown by the airline as it wasn’t their responsibility to find my clubs. I had a back up set flown out from London but they won’t be needed now thanks to the service they provided, which was outstanding.”