Karlsson to pull out of Wales Open with ear infection

By Tony Jimenez

ASH, England (Reuters) - Robert Karlsson, the 2008 European number one, is to withdraw from next week's Wales Open because of an ear problem.

The 39-year-old Swede has been struggling with an inner ear infection for some time and says rest is the cure.

"I am going to pull out next week," Karlsson told Reuters after a closing 70 gave him a one-under-par total of 287 in the European Open at the London Club in Kent.

"I just can't play. I've had this for quite a while so I am going to take some time off before the U.S. Open (at Bethpage in New York next month)."

Karlsson said the infection was having a particularly bad effect on his short game.

"I don't think I've ever chipped and two-putted as many times as I have this week," said the Ryder Cup player. "It's been horrible.

"My balance is out and I can't see the lines, I just don't see anything. I'm struggling big time with my balance on my short game.

"It seems to be alright for the long game but with the short game it affects my balance, especially visually.