Harrington insists ceremonial tee will not dull competitiveness
The R&A traditionally give the first shot, scheduled for 6.35am (0535 GMT) on Thursday, to a player they believe deserves the recognition, but is not necessarily considered a contender.
Harrington, who won back-to-back Claret Jugs in 2007 and 2008 and at 53 would be the oldest winner if he were successful this week, does not agree with that sentiment.
'I still think I'm a player but I'm quite happy to take the ceremonial position of hitting the first shot. It will be nerve-wracking,' the Irishman, winner of the Senior US Open a fortnight ago, told R&A TV.
'I have to create my own reality and in my reality I can win. It doesn't matter what anyone else thinks, I think I can do it.
'I have to prepare like I'm coming down the 18th on Sunday and have to hit a couple of great shots to win The Open.
'That is what is in my head for the week and I am trying to get myself in that headspace that everything is leading to Sunday afternoon. I mightn't get there but if I do get there in contention, I have to prepare for it.'
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