David Duval has accused golfers including Britain's Lee Westwood of having the wrong attitude towards being in shape.

Westwood, ranked fifth in the world has said fitness is a long way down his list of priorities, adding: "I'm a golfer - not an athlete."

But the super-fit Duval, who is aiming for his first major title in The Open at St Andrews, said: "I'm sorry that he thinks that way.

"Being fit helps your stamina, and there is no question if you are playing in 100 degree heat it helps you keep going.

"I got fit because of vanity - I thought I looked a whole lot better - but also because I thought it would make me a better player."

No coincidence

Duval believes it is no coincidence that he and Tiger Woods, the world's top two players, are fitness fanatics. "It is like every sport - golfers will become bigger, stronger and faster."

The 29-year-old from Florida has been in disappointing form since losing out in a close finish to Vjay Singh at the US Masters in April.

But he said: "The feeling is back in my hands when I hold the putter and that, as everyone knows, is so important. I am very confident about my chances here."

Tiger Woods, though, will take some stopping, according to Duval.

"The fact is that he and I do not have a rivalry - he's pretty much outplayed everybody this year, me included."