Scotland’s Andrew Coltart’s hopes of retaining his Tour card were dealt a blow after Tiger Woods opted to join him at next week’s Australian Masters.

Coltart is currently ranked 120th in the Race to Dubai and must secure £25,000 – equal to a top seven finish – in Melbourne to move up to 115th and retain his Tour membership.

The 39-year-old Scot has triumphed on Australian soil, claiming the Australian PGA Championship in 1997, but could do without the presence of the world number one.

Woods will pocket £2million in appearance money just to play in his first Australian tournament in 11 years.

But Coltart insists he’s ready to go the extra mile in a bid to retain his place at golf’s top table.

“I was resigned in my mind to travelling to Melbourne and though it's a long way from Edinburgh for just one event, it has to be done,” said Coltart.

“I've great memories of Australia, not just in 1997 but many times since, so hopefully the trip will be all worth it”.