A Scot from Musselburgh, he is a seven-time world snooker champion, making him the most successful player in the modern era.
He was world No.1 for a record nine seasons.
His first world title in 1990 at 21 made him the youngest world champion.
He has made a century break 776 times and 11 maximum 147 breaks in professional competition.
A member of Sunningdale, this is his first appearance in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.