10 Questions: Jamie Dornan back at St Andrews

Question: How much do you enjoy playing in the Alfred Dunhill Links? What makes it special?

Jamie Dornan: I love it. The chance to play a few of the best courses in the world alongside some of the best players in the world can’t be sniffed at.

Question: What was it like walking down the 18th in the final group on Sunday last year?

Jamie Dornan: Terrifying. I felt a bit lost but just wanted Tyrrell [Hatton, the winner] to drink it all in.

Question: Was it a better feeling than holing out for your eagle on the 18th the year before?

Jamie Dornan: I hacked it down the 18th last year, so definitely have fonder memories of my eagle the year before.

Question: You’re making a habit of playing with winners – Danny Willett in 2015 and he went on to win the Masters; now Tyrrell Hatton, who went on to reach 14th in the world.

Jamie Dornan: I’m a lucky boy. I think my game gives them confidence when they see just how badly someone else can hit the golf ball.

Question: Your partner Tyrrell won, but you only finished fourth in the Team Championship, behind Danny Willett and his caddie Jonathan Smart. Were you pleased to finish fourth, or disappointed you didn’t win?

Jamie Dornan: Was cool to finish fourth, but once we were up there I wanted to win. I’m competitive and was annoyed at myself that I didn’t contribute more over the weekend.

Question: You look quite relaxed on the course, is that the case?

Jamie Dornan: It’s nervous laughter most of the time!

Question: Does being an actor, with your work being seen by so many people, mean you don’t suffer from nerves on the 1st tee?

Jamie Dornan: Not at all. This is way outside of my comfort zone.

Question: Now that you’ve played three times, what is your assessment of the courses?

Jamie Dornan: The closing three holes at Carnoustie are simply impossible for an amateur.

Question: Where does golf fit into your life at the moment? How often do you play?

Jamie Dornan: I get to play about 8/10 rounds a year these days. Simply not enough, but work and two daughters under four doesn’t allow for a great deal of time to myself.

Question: What are your next big work projects?

Jamie Dornan: I’ve got 50 Shades Freed coming out in February, Robin Hood out in March, and My Dinner with Hèrve coming out in April.