Padraig Harrington refused to be downcast after he finished on 12 over par to end his reign as Open champion.

The Irishman had hoped to complete a hat-trick of victories at Turnberry but although he made the cut, a closing round of 73 summed up his week.

"It's come to an end, it's been a good two years being Open champion," he said. "I look forward to coming back.

"With Tom Watson showing it's possible, I could be competitive for another 23 years," added the 37-year-old.

"I know I will come back and compete in many more Opens and I will win some more majors.

"There was a lot of good (ball) striking out there this week. This is one of those weeks I will put into the category of 'this wasn't my week'.

"Going forward I would have no problem playing competitive golf the way I played this week."

606: DEBATE Is Harrington just a brilliant pro who just works and trains very hard and doesn't have the greatest of ability compared to other top players but he just works harder and deserves what he got? Scholes + Giggs 1400 Not Out

Harrington has made major changes to his swing since he followed last year's Open victory at Royal Birkdale by winning the USPGA Championship.

"I suppose I like all this stuff, I'm intrigued by it all," he said.

"I always want to get better and this is a way of getting better. I will be a better player as a result of this and I will have the last laugh."

And he said he was determined to bounce back at next month's USPGA in Minnesota.

"I have felt a little bit behind the eight ball all week but possibly this week could help me as far as the PGA is concerned.

"I am certainly happy with my ball striking, not so happy with the mental side of my game. That needs to be tidied up going forward."

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