Paul Lawrie has withdrawn from competitive golf for the rest of the year in an effort to cure a niggling foot and back problem that has dogged him for the past couple of seasons.

The 49-year-old's aches and pains have been well-documented and he was already facing a real uphill struggle to be fit for next month's Open over the Carnoustie links where he famously won the Claret Jug in 1999.

Lawrie has now accepted it is a losing battle and has decided to step back from the frontline in the hope that he can re-emerge again on the Senior Tour in 2019.

In a statement, Lawrie said: "It is with regret that I announce my withdrawal from all tour events for the remainder of the current season.

"Unfortunately, both the back and foot injuries I have been carrying for the last six months and more have become debilitating, to the point where I

am not currently able to compete at the highest level. Rest and further investigation will be required.

"It is particularly disappointing that I’m going to miss both the upcoming Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Open and the Open Championship, as a result.

"My hope is that the break will allow me to get the required treatment and

to come back next season (when I’ll be eligible for the Seniors circuit) as strong as ever. As well as working on my rehabilitation, the time away from the course will allow me to spend additional time working with the juniors in my Foundation programme which is dear to my heart.

"I would like to thank all of my sponsors for their continued support and understanding at this time, and I hope to come back fitter and stronger in 2019."