Martin Kaymer has suggested that 30% of players are out of contention for the British Open before a ball is struck at Royal Liverpool.

The former world number one is confident that he has the attributes to be successful at the third Major of the season, but he believes that some of his rivals struggle with the mental challenge which comes with playing links golf.

"I just really enjoy playing this kind of golf," Kaymer told reporters. "You have to think so much. You have to be creative. It's a fight.

"It's a battle. A lot of players get mad about it, so you win against them already, so 30% of the field is out."

Kaymer is looking to win his third Major at Hoylake this week, and will play alongside Zach Johnson and Jason Day in the first two rounds.