Faldo's last appearance was last November

European Ryder Cup captain Nick Faldo will not compete in this year's Open at Royal Birkdale.

It is the first time since he failed to qualify as an amateur in 1975 that the three-times former champion will not play in the tournament.

Faldo, 50, has left the door open for a future appearance at the tournament, but preferred to concentrate on his Ryder Cup duties this year.

"I will play The Open again, but this year I need to concentrate," he said.

606: DEBATE Give your thoughts on Faldo's Ryder Cup squad

Faldo's Open debut came at Birkdale 32 years ago, but all his previous wins have come in Scotland, in 1987, 1990 and 1992.

He missed the cut at Carnoustie last year and has not played a tournament since the Hong Kong Open last November.