While the Open was first staged in 1906, Le Golf National is a more recent creation having hosted the tournament 17 times since 1991.

Opened in 1990, this stadium course offers a stern challenge and will test all departments from tee-to-green.

Water is a constant theme, while consistent, accurate iron play is a must for every expectant champion.

The course is fairly undulating with greens that are well-contoured.

So who's teeing-up on Thursday?

Luke Donald: Is back in Europe to improve his Ryder Cup points tally. On his most recent visit 'home', Donald enjoyed a trio of top-three finishes including a victory in the Madrid Masters.

Ross Fisher: Made a welcome return to form in Germany last week when he finished runner-up, for only his second top-10 finish of 2010.

Anders Hansen: Enjoys a reasonable Paris record where he has posted four top-10 finishes since 2002. At last week's Tour event in Munich, the popular Dane finished a respectable tied-30th.

Soren Hansen: Has excellent form at the French Open in which he has registered three top-three finishes in the last five years.

Ian Poulter: Has a decent record in Paris but has struggled in recent months - just one top-10 finish since winning the WGC Match Play title in February

Lee Westwood: The world No 3 tees-up at Le Golf National where he finished runner-up 12 months ago. Was a play-off winner at the St Jude Classic in Tennessee earlier this month.

Material: skysports.com