Graeme McDowell out to shake off rust

US Open champion Graeme McDowell admits he is rusty after a month-long break but hopes to tune up for next month's Ryder Cup with a good performance this week.

• Graeme McDowell plays a shot in yesterday's Austrian Open pro-am after a four-week lay-off Picture: Getty

The Northern Irishman tees off in the Austrian Open in Atzenbrugg today, in his only competitive event before appearing at Celtic Manor.

McDowell accepts his game may not be in top shape but his mind is refreshed, having had to get used to the demands placed on a major winner after his victory at Pebble Beach nearly three months ago. "Since the USPGA Championship I've had four weeks' rest after a very busy spring and summer," McDowell said.. "I needed some rest and time away from the game but now I need to play some competitive golf before the Ryder Cup.

"From now until the end of the season I will be working very hard so it was important to recharge my batteries."

The 31-year-old told personal website graememcdowell.com: "Although I have not played competitively since Whistling Straits over four weeks ago, I am hoping I will be sharp enough to compete here this week. Obviously my game will be rusty, but like every tournament I enter, I am here to win.

"I am hoping that four decent rounds here will have me in good shape come 1 October."

McDowell has been overtaken as leader of the Race to Dubai, which will determine Europe's top golfer, by Martin Kaymer after he won the USPGA.

The German's win at the KLM Open last week extended his advantage to 498,483 euros (415,000) and even victory for McDowell this week would only make a dent of 125,000 euros (104,000) in that lead.