Harrington questions how 'serious' Woods is about winning The Open

Padraig Harrington questioned Tiger Woods' preparation as he and other players plan to skip the lead-up events to the Open Championship.

"I personally think if you're serious about winning The Open you've got to be playing tournament golf at least before it," Harrington said, according to The Telegraph's James Corrigan. "You'd rather be playing links golf and being in a tournament than just (playing) on your own."

Tiger hasn't played since the U.S. Open in June and is not committed to an event next week. He also took an extended break after his Masters win before missing the cut at the PGA Championship.

"I was always mightily impressed when Tiger Woods would play in a major without playing the week before," Harrington added. "I'd be a basket case if I didn't play the week before."

The 47-year-old Irishman won back-to-back Open Championships at Carnoustie and Royal Birkdale in 2007 and 2008, respectively. He understands how unique links golf is compared to any tournament played in the United States.

"I do think links golf is different. You're giving up some shots if you don't play some links golf in the couple of weeks coming up to (The Open)," Harrington said.

There is plenty of links golf being played before the Open Championship. The Irish Open is being contested this week at Lahinch Golf Club followed by the Scottish Open at the Renaissance Club.

The season's final major begins July 18 at Northern Ireland's Royal Portrush.